BANGUED, Abra – At least 2,000 soldiers from the Philippine Army and policemen were deployed to Abra to secure all 262 poll centers in the 27 towns of this province in the May 13 elections.
The number could still grow though as more troops will be provided to focus in areas with history of election-related incidents, authorities said.
No poll-related violence has been reported with the provincial police very optimistic that the political atmosphere will remain calm until Election Day.
Last Thursday, the Provincial Joint Security Control Center held a meeting here with the Commission on Election, Army, and the police to discuss several security measures for peaceful elections in Abra.
Brig. Gen. Henry A Robinson Jr., commander of the Army’s 702nd Brigade, said they will strengthen planning and coordination with the police and Comelec for the demands of this year’s election in Abra.
“Your Army has always been prepared to secure the Abra province; and we shall remain apolitical to maintain the people’s trust and confidence,” said Robinson.
“We enjoin everyone to be a responsible and a wise voter; do not let politicians to buy your votes, your dignity, and your future,” Robinson added. (Freddie Lazaro)
