Commission on Elections, Philippine National Police and Army officials convened the Regional Election Monitoring Action Center (REMAC) of the Negros Island Region at Camp Alfredo M. Montelibano Sr. in Bacolod City on Friday, May 9, to finalize security arrangements for Election Day on Monday.
The meeting’s focused on the strategic deployment of security personnel across the NIR to ensure a safe and orderly electoral process, a Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) statement said.
The officials also addressed the strict implementation of the liquor ban that takes effect on Sunday and Monday, which is a critical measure aimed at preventing possible disturbances and promoting a peaceful environment for voters, it said.
Contingency plans for various potential scenarios that could disrupt the elections, including potential violence stemming from intense political rivalry, criminal activities by communist terrorist groups, and natural disasters, such as volcanic eruptions, that may impact election day were also tackled, the PRO-NIR statement added.
Present at the meeting were Comelec NIR Assistant Regional Director Jossil R. Macute, Maj. Gen. Michael G. Samson – 3rd Infantry Division commander, Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay – PRO-NIR regional director and Brig. Gen. Ted Dumosmog – 303rd Infantry Brigade commander.
Macute stressed that the Comelec is committed to a transparent and secure electoral environment, highlighting the critical role of collaboration among the involved agencies.
“Our collective efforts will ensure that everyone will be safe and actions will be undertaken as planned in any eventualities,” Macute said.
Samson pledged the Philippine Army’s unwavering support in maintaining peace and order throughout the election period.
Ibay called for enhanced coordination and communication between military and police forces to adeptly handle any challenges that may arise before and during the elections.
He urged local communities to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly.
Ibay also emphasized the readiness of all security forces in responding when the need arises.*