ILOILO – In preparation for any potential incidents during the filing of certificates of candidacy (COC), the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) has stationed standby forces near venues to ensure a rapid response within two minutes.
This initiative complements the help desk already set up at the venue of the COC filing, which started on Tuesday, October 1.
IPPO director Colonel Bayani Razalan assured the public that the entire police force is on alert to ensure a peaceful and orderly filing of COCs from October 1 to 8.
He conducted an inspection at the Festive Walk Mall in Mandurriao district, where the filing is taking place.
“All of our Comelec (Commission on Elections) offices have police assistance desks ready to address any situation. Additionally, we have standby forces near the filing venue to respond within two minutes in case of any tension, whether between supporters or candidates,” said Razalan.
Each help desk is staffed with a minimum of six personnel to maintain peace and order during the event.
Razalan expressed confidence that the filing process would remain calm, as the campaign period is still distant. However, he acknowledged the possibility of tensions arising in areas with multiple contenders and instructed the chiefs of police in all 43 municipalities and Passi City to implement necessary measures.
“We can’t discount the possibility of friction, so I’ve spoken with each chief of police. If any minor issues arise, our personnel should be present at the filing area,” Razalan added.
The town of Calinog has been a focus of the IPPO due to a shooting incident that occurred during the previous barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections, making it a potential hotspot for the upcoming election.
Razalan also addressed the situation in New People’s Army (NPA)-infested areas, stating that the threat posed by rebels in the province has significantly diminished, with most fronts dismantled. Nevertheless, security discussions will continue in the coming weeks with the Commission on Elections (Comelec), the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the Bureau of Fire Protection to finalize measures for the May 12, 2025 elections.
Razalan appealed to both candidates and their supporters to follow the rules and regulations during the filing of COCs and to maintain a peaceful atmosphere.
“Let’s keep the elections honest, orderly, and peaceful. In the end, the rightful leaders chosen by the people will take office,” he said./PN
