The Police Regional Office-5 deployed at least 2,600 police personnel to secure the filing of Certificates of Candidacy in the Bicol region from October 1 to 8.
They are assigned to venue security, traffic management, mobile patrols and specialized units such as SWAT, Quick Reaction Teams (QRT), Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units, K9 teams, and covert security.
"The filing period, scheduled from October 1 to 8, 2024, is a crucial phase in the electoral process and PRO-5 is committed to ensuring the safety and orderliness of this activity," Police Brig. Gen. Andre P. Dizon, PRO-5 chief, said.
DIZON (FB)
"This multi-faceted approach will ensure complete coverage and a secure environment throughout the filing period," Dizon added.
He said that the deployment follows the directive of Philippine National Police chief Police Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil
"Gen. Marbil has instructed all police units to boost election-related preparations to guarantee a peaceful, credible, and secure electoral process," Dizon said.
“We shall remain vigilant, perform our duties efficiently under the quad concept of policing – intelligence, operations, investigation, and police-community relations – and ensure that all candidates and the public experience a peaceful election," Dizon said.
Dizon reminded his men to remain apolitical. “Political neutrality is a core responsibility of every officer. We must not allow ourselves to be influenced or used by politicians,” he said.
He said that PNP personnel must uphold law and order without any bias or political partisanship. "Officers who engage in any partisan political activities will face appropriate sanctions," he warned.
Dizon appealed to the public to cooperate with security personnel and report any suspicious activities that may affect the peaceful conduct of the COC filing and the upcoming elections.
"They are encouraged to use the available hotlines and social media platforms of the PNP to provide any information that can help maintain peace and order.”
Dizon said that with this proactive approach, PRO-5 will achieve its mission to safeguard democracy, ensuring that the Bicol region remains secure during the 2025 electoral process.