Police Brig. Gen. Roger L. Quesada, director of the Police Regional Office 4B, has ordered all commanders in five provinces of the region to intensify the security measures to ensure a peaceful and orderly conduct of midterm elections on May 12.
The election period already started on Jan. 12 and Quesada said he wants more conduct of checkpoints in as many areas in Mindoro provinces, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan (Mimaropa) as instructed by national police chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil.
"Checkpoints are essential for maintaining a safe election environment by strictly enforcing laws, including the prohibition of firearms, while adhering to Comelec (Commission on Elections) directives and respecting the rights and privacy of citizens," said Quesada.
Marbil earlier said that the checkpoints that must be set up in the entire election period must always be at least 1,000 every day in order for the public to feel the government’s efforts to secure the midterm polls.
Aside from the conduct of the checkpoint, Quesada said aggressive police operations will also be conducted against loose firearms and criminal elements who would threaten the election.
Quesada also vowed to strictly implement the nationwide gun ban, including the suspension of the validity of Permits to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence (PTCFOR) and the limiting the carrying of firearms to on-duty, uniformed police and military personnel.
Quesada reminded firearm holders that violations of the gun ban carry severe penalties, including imprisonment, disqualification from public office or voting, and permanent revocation of gun licenses.
"Our mission is to ensure a safe and secure voting environment, free from violence, as we aim for zero election-related incidents and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process," said Quesada.
"We ask for the public's patience and full cooperation with our law enforcement officers at checkpoints. Together, we can maintain peace and order, ensuring a secure and orderly election process," he added.
So far, he said they have not monitored any election-related incidents in Mimaropa.