Photo courtesy of PNP/Facebook.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has deployed 9,435 personnel across the Bangsamoro region as authorities tighten security ahead of the Sept. 14 parliamentary elections.
With preparations at 98 percent, police forces have been assigned to voting centers, Comelec offices, treasurers’ offices and checkpoints, while quick reaction and civil disturbance management units have been positioned for possible incidents.
More than half of the security contingent came from outside the region. The PNP said 4,361 personnel were from Police Regional Office BARMM, while 5,074 were augmentation forces from other police offices and specialized units.
The reinforcements included personnel from the Highway Patrol Group, explosive ordnance disposal units and the Special Action Force.
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla and PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. inspected the final security preparations during a command conference in Parang, Maguindanao del Norte, on Aug. 26.
“Nandiyan na ang ating mga tao at nakaayos na ang mga plano. Pero hindi ibig sabihin na tapos na ang trabaho. Sa natitirang 18 araw, pagtitibayin pa natin ang coordination at titiyakin na handa ang bawat unit sa anumang sitwasyon,” Nartatez said.
The PNP said the final phase would focus on coordination and adjustments based on security conditions in specific areas. Police assigned to election duties were also ordered to remain impartial and act against violations such as vote-buying.
All 1,368 Special Electoral Boards will operate under Comelec supervision, while police units remain on heightened alert as the Bangsamoro region prepares for its parliamentary elections.
