BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – The Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) is ramping up its security operations ahead of the May 2025 midterm elections, as the filing of certificates of candidacy (COC) begins on October 1, 2024.
ICPO director Police Colonel Kim Legada announced that additional police personnel would be deployed across the city, in close coordination with the city government and the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).
This move aims to prevent any election-related violence and ensure a peaceful and orderly electoral process, he said.
“We are fully committed to preventing violence or intimidation during the elections,” stressed Legada, highlighting their focus on maintaining public safety.
Among the measures being implemented are increased police patrols in public areas and the establishment of police assistance desks at the City Comelec office.
The ICPO is also encouraging residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities that may threaten election security.
Legada further assured the public of the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) strict adherence to political neutrality throughout the election period.
The filing of COCs for the 2025 national and local elections, as well as the inaugural Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections, is set for October 1-8, 2024.
The PNP has issued a stern warning to all of its officers and members against serving political figures. In Camp Crame, PNP chief General Rommel Marbil likewise directed all local police units to boost their election-related preparations to ensure peace and order during the 2025 polls.
“We are entering a crucial period as candidates for the 2025 elections begin filing their certificates of candidacy. I am directing all local police units to remain vigilant, perform their duties efficiently under the Quad principle, and ensure public safety,” the PNP top official said.
“At the same time, I am reminding every officer that political neutrality is a core responsibility. Do not allow yourselves to be influenced or used by politicians,” he told law enforcers.
He also pointed out that their duty is to “uphold law and order without any bias or political partisan,” adding that those who “engage in partisan activities will be dealt with accordingly.”
“The PNP is tasked with protecting the democratic process, not participating in it,” he stressed.
“We will not tolerate any officer who compromises our commitment to neutrality and fairness. Any form of political interference, whether directly or indirectly, will be met with swift and decisive action,” Marbil said.
The PNP chief also asked the public to report any irregularities done by the police. (With a report from the Philippine Daily Inquirer)/PN