The Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines assured yesterday that they are ready to ensure the safety of millions of Filipino voters in the midterm elections next month.
PNP spokesman Police Col. Bernard Banac said around 143,000 police personnel, which is almost the entirety of its police force, were assigned nationwide to ensure the security of the public during the polls.
“Maghihigpit po tayo ng seguridad lalo na sa mga voting centers,” Banac said during the DZMM Halalan 2019 Forum at the Mandaluyong City Hall.
Because of this, Banac advised voters to not bring bags at polling precincts to avoid inconvenience during inspections.
Suspicious items and vehicles left unattended for a long period of time should also be reported to authorities. Bribery and vote buying are also strictly prohibit during Election Day.
“Kapag ikaw ay nahuli na nanunuhol o tumatanggap ng suhol, magpapaliwanag po kayo sa presinto,” he said.
Latest PNP data showed around 4,600 persons were arrested for violating the election gun ban while around 3600 illegal firearms were seized, he said.
These numbers will continue to increase since police will continue implementing search warrants against individuals and elected officials concealing contrabands as well as continuous surveillance of suspected private armed groups.
AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said they are prepared to deal with insurgents who might interfere in the peace and order during the elections.
“Sigurado po tayo na meron po tayong sapat na bilang ng mga tauhan na handa at nakatalagang siguraduhin na hindi nila magagawa ang kanilang mga terror plans,” Arevalo said. (Jhon Casinas)