THE Philippine National Police (PNP) is ramping up security measures for the 2025 national and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Barmm) parliamentary elections, focusing on countering illegal firearms, political violence, vote buying, and fake news.
Police Major Joann Navarro, spokesperson for PNP-10, confirmed that a nationwide directive has been issued to ensure peaceful and orderly elections.
“In Region 10, elections have been generally peaceful, but we must not be complacent. That’s why we are intensifying our campaign across the region,” Navarro said.
The PNP's election security plan includes a 100-day heightened monitoring period leading up to the polls.
Stricter gun control measures, increased checkpoints, and intensified intelligence gathering will be implemented to curb election-related violence.
“We are actively monitoring and suppressing activities of armed groups and individuals who may attempt to intimidate voters or disrupt the election process,” Navarro said.
The PNP will also crack down on vote buying and electoral fraud. Additionally, its Anti-Cybercrime Group will monitor social media for misinformation and disinformation.
Meanwhile, Misamis Oriental Governor Peter Unabia urged voters to reject vote buying, encouraging them to evaluate candidates based on their programs and accomplishments rather than monetary incentives.
