Police forces in Western Mindanao are now on alert for the filing of the certificates of candidacy (COCs) for the first-ever Bangsamoro parliamentary elections that will coincide with the 2025 midterm elections on May 12.
Police Maj. Gen. Bernard Banac, director of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao of the Philippine National Police (PNP), said land and maritime police forces were already deployed to ensure a maximum security coverage for the protection of not only the public but also of the candidates.
“Our personnel are ready to ensure maximum police visibility and immediate police response when needed,” said Banac.
The filing of the COCs for the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections started on Monday, Nov. 4 and will end on Nov. 9.
President Marcos earlier met with local chief executives of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) for the peaceful and orderly conduct of the elections.
According to the Commission on Elections, a total of 73 parliamentary seats will be filled up during the elections.
Comelec is also expected to open the filing of List of Nominees and Certificates of Acceptance of Nomination for regional parliamentary political parties.
Banac assured of a wide-range of security coverage in compliance with the order of PNP chief, Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil.
He said they have been coordinating with local military forces for the security coverage.
“The PNP together with the AFP and PCG supports the national government and the Comelec in strengthening collaboration, cooperation and coordination in ensuring a peaceful, orderly and credible midterm election in the region in May 2025,” said Banac.