BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – The Regional Joint Security Control Center (RJCC) has pledged to uphold Western Visayas’ reputation for hosting peaceful and orderly elections, reinforcing this commitment during a press conference marking the start of the election period.
The election period runs until June 11, 2025.
“We, the RJCC, are here to ensure that with the partnership of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), we will continue Region 6’s tradition as one of the most peaceful and orderly elections compared to other regions,” said Atty. Dennis Ausan, regional elections director.
Ausan stressed RJCC’s role in enforcing election regulations, with a particular focus on the gun ban.
“We officially begin observing the election period, and as such, there are prohibitions that must be observed. One of these is the implementation of the gun ban, which is the RJCC’s primary function to accomplish for the Commission,” he said.
The gun ban includes restrictions on the transport of firearms and deadly weapons. It also prohibits transferring or detaining Civil Service officers and employees and providing security escorts or bodyguards without authorization.
Representatives from the AFP, PNP, and PCG affirmed their full support for secure and orderly elections.
Major General Marion Sison, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, assured the public of the AFP’s readiness.
“Your Philippine Army in Western Visayas will always be in support of Comelec, whatever resources we have, including manpower and logistics,” he said.
Police Regional Office 6 director PBGen Jack Wanky cited the PNP’s proactive measures, including intensified police operations and checkpoints.
“Even before the election period, the Police Regional Office 6 has been prepared and operational. We will continue intensifying police operations, especially with Comelec checkpoints, to provide full support,” he stated.
Commander Richard Agura of the Coast Guard Station Iloilo acknowledged logistical hurdles but expressed confidence in addressing them.
“We have already intensified our implementation of maritime security and safety within our area of responsibility. Although some stations lack assets to assist Comelec in transporting paraphernalia and equipment, we have alternative solutions to address these gaps,” he said./PN