
PNP fully ready for Barangay, SK polls
THE Philippine National Police (PNP) assured all security preparations are set to ensure the holding of a smooth and safe Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections, PNP chief General Benjamin Acorda Jr. said yesterday.
“We are committed to upholding the integrity of the upcoming elections and ensuring a safe environment for all citizens to exercise their right to vote,” said the top cop as he expressed their dedication to the electoral process.
On Tuesday, all concerned PNP officials held a meeting with their counterparts from the Armed Forces, the Philippine Coast Guard and other law enforcement agencies deputized by the Commission on Elections chaired by George Erwin Garcia.
The conference aimed to discuss and solidify their preparations for the October 2023 BSKE.
As the election period begins on August 28, the PNP will enhance its visibility across the nation by implementing checkpoints to uphold law and order.
The day will start the nationwide enforcement of the gun ban until November 29 to maintain public safety and minimize potential threats.
Acknowledging the importance of election-related peace and security measures, the PNP and its partner agencies have initiated collaborative efforts to maintain the integrity of the electoral process.
Gen. Acorda assured the public that strict vigilance against vote buying and other unlawful activities will be implemented.
Over 300 police officers assigned in areas where their relatives are running in the November polls have been temporarily reassigned to other units as part of the PNP’s non-partisan stance.
PNP highlighted its commitment to treat all individuals with utmost courtesy and respect during checkpoint inspections.
The PNP emphasized its dedication to conducting these inspections in a professional and non-disruptive manner.
To ensure a fair and honest election, the PNP will deploy a sufficient number of personnel across the nation.
This concerted effort aims to create a secure environment where citizens can freely exercise their right to vote without fear or intimidation.
“The PNP, in close cooperation with Comelec, AFP and PCG, remains steadfast in its dedication to upholding the principles of democracy and safeguarding the rights of the Filipino people,” Gen. Acorda added.
Police are watching at least 27 ‘areas of concern’ in Western and Central Visayas and the Bangsamoro Administrative Region amid their history of intense political rivalries and election-related incidents in previous polls.
Also being closely monitored are places heavily influenced and infiltrated by the New People’s Army and other lawless armed groups in the southern Philippines.