Cops, military to guard ‘will of electorate’ in polls

By Freddie Lazaro 

BANGUED, Abra – Provincial officials said the military and police will display the highest sense of professionalism in the midterm elections in May.

The assurance came after President Duterte said he is certain the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) will remain non-partisan in the polls.

Gov. Ma. Jocelyn Valera-Bernos, a reserve lieutenant colonel in the Philippine Army, said the “will of the electorate” will be guarded with utmost care.

Earlier, the Commission on Elections (Comelec), police and military renewed their commitment in ensuring honest, fair, and peaceful elections.

Abra had earlier activated “Abra Shield”, a unique public safety force composed of 1501st Regional Mobile First Battalion, 22nd Special Action Company, PNP-Special Action Force, and Provincial Mobile Force Company to implement the gun ban and to intensify operations against loose firearms and private armed groups.

Aside from setting up checkpoints, the police has stepped up foot and mobile patrols all over the province.

The Army unit stationed in the province had pledged to support the local police operations while strengthening its counter-insurgency campaign.

Bernos appealed to the policemen and soldiers not to be enticed by politicians. She reminded them to always be on the side of the law and perform their mandate “to serve the country and their fellow Filipinos.”