PNP steps up security measures as local campaign period starts

(Photo from PNP’s Facebook page)

MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday assured efforts to maintain peace and order in line with the onset of the campaign period for local candidates.

PNP spokesperson Police Chief Supt. Wilben Mayor confirmed that PNP Chief Police Director General Ricardo Marquez already directed policemen all over the country to strengthen their presence in public places as the rivalry between local candidates bets are expected to be more intense as compared to those running for national positions.

On the other hand, PNP still seeks help from the local government to participate and direct their force multipliers which includes barangay officials, non-government organizations, civic organizations and religious groups to report suspicious acts during the campaign period and on the exact day of the polls.

Moreover, Mayor said that the PNP will increase police visibility in election hotspots days before the May 9 elections.

Based on PNP’s list, the provinces of Masbate, Pangasinan, Negros Oriental, Samar, Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur are identified as election hotspots.

Marquez said the six provinces will be the focus of the security operations aimed at curbing the outbreak of politics-related violence.

In addition, he said the PNP will be consistently monitoring other areas.

To prevent bloodshed in areas with intense political rivalry, Mayor said the police, military and Commission on Elections advocate mediation between contending parties.