Manila: Close to 10,000 policemen have been deployed across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to bolster security for the upcoming parliamentary elections set for September 14. This was announced by the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday, underscoring efforts to ensure the safety of voters, election workers, and polling sites.
According to Philippines News Agency, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. outlined that the deployment involves strategic placement of police personnel throughout the region. The largest contingent will be stationed at 4,313 voting centers. The security operation will also cover 208 Commission on Elections (Comelec) offices, 218 treasurers' offices, and 856 checkpoints, with the support of 2,120 Quick Reaction Forces (QRFs) ready to respond to any emergencies.
Nartatez highlighted that additional support will come from 352 Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) personnel and 1,754 Special Electoral Board (SEB) personnel. This arrangement is designed to address various security needs during the electoral process.
He emphasized that the deployment is meant to complement regular police activities and to maintain order in places with high voter turnout. Of the total officers deployed, 4,361 are from the Police Regional Office BARMM, while 5,460 are augmentation personnel from other regional offices and specialized units.
Nartatez stressed the importance of a robust police presence to reassure voters and safeguard the electoral process. "Our personnel are deployed not only to secure election areas but to help create an environment where people can exercise their right to vote freely, peacefully, and without intimidation," he stated.
Residents of BARMM have been assured that the increased police presence and checkpoints are part of the security preparations for the elections and should not be a cause for concern. The PNP chief reiterated that these measures align with directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla to protect communities and maintain order during the elections.
He added that more checkpoints are expected as law enforcement agencies enhance security measures to mitigate potential threats, ensuring community safety as the parliamentary elections approach.
