Over 22,000 police officers have been deployed in Central Visayas to ensure the safety and security of the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Elections. The deployment is part of the preparations being made by the Philippine National Police (PNP) for the simultaneous elections scheduled for October 30th. Police Lieutenant Colonel Gerard Ace Pelare, spokesperson for the Police Regional Office in Central Visayas, stated that their operations are in full swing as they work closely with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and Philippine Coast Guard.
The preparations began on August 28th, 2023, with the filing of certificates of candidacy. Since then, there have been a total of 107,875 checkpoints set up across strategic locations in Central Visayas. These checkpoints have resulted in the apprehension of several individuals and the seizure of 37 illegal firearms, all in violation of the gun ban implemented for the election period.
In addition to the checkpoints, the PNP is closely monitoring election watchlist areas. These areas are constantly evaluated and updated to assist in the deployment of personnel. While there is no decision yet on the possible postponement of the elections in Negros Oriental province, Pelare assured that the PNP is prepared for any decision made by COMELEC and has contingency plans in place to ensure security coverage.
In a separate operation, the PRO-7 confiscated a total of P9,352,040 worth of suspected illegal drugs during a two-day Simultaneous Anti-Criminality Law Enforcement Operations (SACLEO). The operation resulted in the recovery of approximately 1,375 grams of illegal drugs. Individuals involved in the drug trade, including Manuel Ace Delgado Causing, Glen Dihayco Amante, and John Lemuel Bensulan, were apprehended during the operation.
According to Pelare, the arrests have contributed to a decrease in crime incidents in the area. He acknowledged that the involvement of young individuals in the drug trade is not a new phenomenon and that the PNP is prepared to deal with such tactics by criminals.
As the election date draws nearer, the PNP will continue its relentless efforts to ensure a peaceful and orderly election period in Central Visayas. The deployment of over 22,000 police personnel and the vigilance in monitoring election watchlist areas demonstrate the commitment to secure the elections and uphold the democratic process.
