TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan – The Police Regional Office-2 has deployed augmentation forces from the Regional Mobile Force Battalion-2 and Philippine National Police-Special Action Force in the provinces of Cagayan and Isabela to ensure the conduct of credible elections.

PRO-2 chief Police Brig. Gen. Antonio Marallag Jr. said they will reinforce police stations and units in election areas of concern in the two provinces.
Marallag said they will also bolster local police units in securing polling centers, Comelec offices, main roads, and other vital installations as well as intensify the enforcement of checkpoints and “Oplan: Sita” operations.
He said the augmentation is grounded on the PRO-2’s commitment as frontline security force in the elections.
“This is not a mere show of force. Your presence in the field must inspire trust among the people and instill fear and deterrence among those who intend to disrupt peace. We are not only safeguarding ballots but we are also safeguarding the will of the people. Remember that one act of abuse could destroy public trust, while one act of courage can inspire a community,” Marallag said.
This deployment of troops supports the efforts of the national government under the direction of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and the Philippine National Police under the leadership of PNP chief Police Gen. Rommel D. Marbil.
Marbil earlier stressed the PNP’s critical role in safeguarding the electoral process.
“We are ready to ensure that every Filipino can vote in safety and peace. We will intensify checkpoints, chokepoints, and patrol operations to prevent any disruptions. Our job is to preserve the sanctity of the election process, and we will not allow anything to compromise that,” said Marbil.
Meanwhile, Marallag said PRO-2 will continue to maintain peace and order before, during, and after Election Day through strengthened security arrangements particularly in identified election hotspots, and coordination with Comelec, Armed Forces of the Philippines units, and other stakeholders.
PRO-2 encouraged citizens to actively participate in securing the electoral process by reporting suspicious activities to the nearest police stations or through hotlines of police stations regionwide. (with a report from Freddie G. Lazaro)