Davao city: The Police Regional Office-Davao (PRO-11) dispatched 869 police personnel on Wednesday to bolster security and election operations for the upcoming Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections scheduled for September 14.
According to Philippines News Agency, the deployment consists of 500 personnel designated as Special Electoral Board members, 365 security personnel, and four officers, including one contingent commander and three staff members. In his address, PRO-11 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Leon Victor Rosete emphasized that the contingent is equipped and prepared to execute its duties with competence, discipline, and professionalism.
Rosete stated, "The Philippine National Police is tasked to protect every citizen apolitically, including their constitutional rights and freedom. In response to BARMM's urgent need for members of the security sector, we gather here to honor the brave men and women who are about to embark on a critical mission for the first BARMM Parliamentary Elections." The contingent's role will be to support police forces in the Special Geographic Area, Maguindanao del Sur Police Provincial Office, Maguindanao del Norte Police Provincial Office, and Cotabato City Police Office, enhancing manpower for election security and operations during the electoral period.
Rosete reiterated the deployment's mandate: to protect the people, secure the electoral process, and ensure that every voter can freely exercise their constitutional right. He reminded personnel to remain vigilant, disciplined, and professional while upholding human rights and respecting the laws, customs, and cultural sensitivities of Bangsamoro communities.
Meanwhile, Commission on Elections-Davao (Comelec-11) Regional Election Director lawyer Remlane Tambuang highlighted the importance of the police deployment in ensuring not only the security of the elections but also the sanctity and integrity of the polls. "This is a big mission with big responsibilities for each of us. We deeply value your commitment and cooperation," Tambuang said, noting that while Comelec ensures the integrity of the electoral process, the PNP provides the necessary security and stability for it to proceed. He encouraged officers to maintain vigilance, discipline, and honesty, urging them to follow rules and procedures, maintain neutrality, and coordinate closely with one another.
