The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has deployed around 1,400 policemen as part of the security measures for the filing of certificates of candidacy for the midterm elections from Oct. 1 to 8.
NCRPO chief Maj. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. said the policemen will be deployed near the Commission on Elections (Comelec) office in Manila and other areas where candidates and their supporters are expected to converge.
“We must uphold a safe environment that fosters the democratic process. We are committed to ensuring that the filing of candidacies in Metro Manila proceeds smoothly and without disruptions,” said Nartatez.
He said they have already coordinated with various local government units and other groups to maximize manpower for the security measures during the weeklong election process.
Nartatez said he also directed the five district directors in Metro Manila to ensure sufficient personnel are assigned to manage crowd control, and traffic flow and to provide assistance through help desks for candidates and the public.
The five police district are the Quezon City Police District; Manila Police District; Southern Police District which covers Makati, Taguig, Parañaque, Muntinlupa, Las Piñas, Pasay and Pateros; the Eastern Police District which covers Pasig, Mandaluyong, San Juan, Marikina; and the Northern Police District which has jurisdiction over Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas and Valenzuela.
“We assure the public of our readiness to maintain peace and security throughout this period. Coordination meetings with various agencies and stakeholders are ongoing to address possible challenges and ensure swift responses to emerging situations,” said Nartatez.
He also reminded the public to cooperate with authorities and respect the rules and regulations set forth by the Comelec during the filing period.
“Let us all work together to make this crucial step in our democratic process peaceful and orderly,” said Nartatez.