Lanao del Sur gov assures readiness for BARMM polls amid heightened PNP security

Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal 'Bombit' Adiong Jr. declared the province fully prepared for the upcoming October 13 Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections, urging residents to participate.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has intensified security operations, conducting 14,828 checkpoints from August 14 to September 16, resulting in 22 arrests and 32 firearms confiscated.

Targeted operations against private armed groups and monitoring of loose firearms are being prioritized to prevent violence and intimidation during the electoral period.

Regional Joint Security Control Centers have been activated to unify efforts between the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and Comelec for real-time response and coordination.

Acting PNP Chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. assured that the PNP will remain strictly neutral and professional, enforcing the law without favor to ensure a peaceful, orderly, and credible electoral process.

Governor Adiong also appealed to candidates and their supporters to focus on peace and unity, emphasizing that the election is an opportunity to secure the future of the Bangsamoro region.