PNP up security in Luzon as May polls near

By Myds Supnad

VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur- The Philippine National Police and Armed Forces of the Philippines in Regions 1 and 3 have increased security precautions for the May polls, even as the Singsons, the dominant political clan of Ilocos Sur pledged not to use violence to win.  

An army general said Monday the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division (7ID), Philippine Army in coordination with the Philippine National Police are coordinating to ensure fair, honest and orderly elections.

            

Maj. Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang, commander of the Army’s 7th Infantry Division which covers Regions 1 and 3, said the 7ID deployed  personnel along with the PNP in strategic locations to conduct checkpoints to pre-empt election related violence that may arise during the campaign period that started Feb 12.

            

Earlier, top Army officials 7ID joined the signing of peace covenant made in all provinces in Regions 1 and 3 with local political candidates, religious leaders, local government units and agencies.

             

Catapang also cited  the assurance made by Ilocos Sur gubernatorial candidate Ryan  Singson and political leaders in the province who said the Singsons will not resort to political violence.

            

Ryan is son of incumbent Gov. Chavit Singson who did not file his candidacy and placed his son Ryan as his successor, while Ronald Singson, another son of Chavit, has also wanted to regain the post he had vacated in the first congressional district.

            

The Singsons are still a force to reckon with in Ilocos Sur.

            

Catapang said the signing of covenants  aimed to pursue the following objectives: ensure conduct of fair elections, abhor use of force, violence or intimidation directed to any particular political party or to any candidate, refrain from character assassination but rather confine campaign in portraying political platform and programs of government and respect laws governing conduct of truly free and democratic elections.

Covenants also pledged assistance to any political party or politician subjected  to harassment or intimidation  and disputes shall be resolved in the most civilized manner taking into consideration the inherent rights of a citizens of the 

Catapang Jr. said 7ID personnel should be non- partisan in politics, except to exercise their right to suffrage.

          

The general also encouraged political parties to abide by Comelec orders, particularly political aspirants having too much security or bodyguard carrying firearms not specified under Resolution No. 9561-A. of the electoral body.