Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) has placed all its units under heightened security alert status to secure the start of the election campaign for local candidates on Friday.

According to Philippines News Agency, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo stated that PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has directed all police regional offices to monitor their areas of responsibility to prevent criminal activities and respond to untoward incidents. Gen. Marbil emphasized the importance of police visibility in areas where campaign activities are taking place for both local and national candidates.

Fajardo highlighted that the PNP has canceled the leaves of police officers to ensure sufficient manpower during this critical time. “It means at least 75 percent of the total strength of PNP must be readily available for deployment,” she said. Furthermore, Marbil has ordered intensified monitoring of election areas of concern, acknowledging the heightened intensity of political battles involving local officials.

In a statement, Marbil urged all regional, provincial, city, and municipal police commanders to lead efforts in maintaining a peaceful, honest, and orderly electoral process. He issued a stern warning to those attempting to disrupt the elections, stating, “The full force of the law will be upon you. We will not tolerate any attempt to undermine our democracy.” Marbil also emphasized the need for law enforcers to anticipate threats, act swiftly, and maintain strict neutrality, advocating for a proactive approach to preventing election-related violence.

The campaign period for senatorial candidates and party-list groups began on February 11, and all candidates have until May 10 to campaign for the national and local elections scheduled for May 12.