PNP intensifies election monitoring, deploys extra personnel

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Rommel Francisco Marbil has directed intensified monitoring of areas prone to electoral risks as the official campaign period for local candidates begins on Friday, March 28.

The PNP will deploy additional personnel in areas with intense political rivalry and a history of politically motivated violence to address election risk factors identified by the PNP chief, while also canceling leaves for at least 75 percent of its total strength.

PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo stated that police visibility must be maintained during campaign sorties for both local and national candidates to ensure public safety and adherence to the law.

As of March 23, there have been 11 validated election-related incidents, including seven shootings, one cyber-libel case, one mauling, one ambush, and one explosion, resulting in seven deaths and seven injuries.

The PNP is also considering deploying the Special Action Force to the Bangsamoro region due to a series of violent attacks there.