Manila: About 16,000 police officers are set to be deployed for the first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) on Oct. 13, newly installed acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez said on Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Nartatez stated that the PNP is making extensive efforts to prevent poll-related violence, with the Police Regional Office (PRO) - BARMM closely monitoring groups that might threaten peace and security in the region during the elections. During a press briefing at Camp Crame, Nartatez emphasized the commitment to proceed with the elections and the readiness to enhance security forces if necessary, in collaboration with the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

In line with a Comelec resolution, a gun ban commenced in the region on Aug. 14 and will continue until Oct. 28, covering the election period for the BARMM polls. Nartatez highlighted the focus on preventing traditional election-related issues, including the use of guns, goons, and gold. The PNP has studied past incidents of violence to better prepare for potential threats.

Earlier, 94 towns/municipalities in the BARMM were placed under the "red" category, indicating areas of grave concern. Two towns, Buluan in Maguindanao del Sur and Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao del Norte, are under Comelec control due to violence, although the poll body indicated that this declaration may soon be lifted.

Comelec Resolution 11149 outlines prohibited activities during the election period, including the unauthorized carrying of firearms, use of security personnel by candidates, and the organization of reaction forces. The resolution also restricts the suspension of elected officials, transfer of civil service employees, and changes to polling precinct territories.

Violators of the resolution may face severe penalties, including imprisonment, disqualification from public office, loss of voting rights, and deportation for foreigners after serving their sentence. The resolution applies to the provinces of Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, and BARMM's eight new municipalities in North Cotabato, collectively known as the Special Geographic Area.