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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Set the tone for peaceful midterm polls, PNP asks bets as local campaign period starts

Set the tone for peaceful midterm polls, PNP asks bets as local campaign period starts

Published Mar 26, 2025 06:35 am

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Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) called on local candidates and their supporters to commit to peaceful and orderly conduct of the midterm elections as he warned of consequences of any election-related violent incidents.

As of March 23, the PNP recorded a total of 35 election-related incidents— 11 of them were validated to be election-related while the rest are under investigation. The validated poll-related incidents are mostly gun attacks.

Marbil said he already instructed all police commanders to implement additional security measures amid threats of possible increase in violent incidents during the campaign period for local candidates—from March 28 to May 10.

“Candidates and their supporters must uphold the law and reject violence. They have the responsibility to lead by example,” said Marbil.

"Candidates must set the tone for a peaceful election. Leadership begins with respecting the rules of democratic engagement," he added.

Marbil said all regional, provincial, city, and municipal police commanders were also tasked to take the lead in ensuring that the electoral process remains peaceful, honest, and orderly.

He emphasized that law enforcers must anticipate threats, act swiftly, and maintain strict neutrality, underscoring that he expects a proactive approach in preventing election-related violence.

“Commanders on the ground must anticipate threats, act swiftly, and maintain strict neutrality. I expect a proactive stance against any form of election-related violence,” he emphasized.

"To those who seek to sow fear, intimidate voters, or manipulate the elections through violence—this is your final warning: the full force of the law will be upon you. We will not tolerate any attempt to undermine our democracy," Marbil added.

The PNP has already deployed calibrated security operations nationwide, focusing on election hotspots and areas with intense political rivalries.

These measures include intensified intelligence gathering, expanded police presence, and close coordination with the Commission on Elections (Comelec), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and other government agencies.

“We have established police assistance desks at campaign venues and deployed additional personnel to vulnerable areas. Our quick reaction forces are on standby. Let it be clear—we are ready,” Marbil said.

He also warned police personnel against engaging in partisan politics.

“There will be zero tolerance for any form of partisanship. Any officer found violating election protocols will face immediate administrative and criminal consequences,” he warned.

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