TACLOBAN CITY-B/Gen. Reynaldo Pawid, director of Police Regional Office (PRO-8), has assured the public of a peaceful and orderly filing of certificates of candidacy (COCs) and certificates of nomination and acceptance (CONAs) for the 2025 national and local elections, scheduled from October 1 to 8, 2024.
“We are fully committed to ensuring the safety of candidates and the public during this filing period. Our personnel are well-prepared, and we will continue to work closely with other agencies to safeguard the integrity of the process,” said Pawid in a statement issued on Tuesday, Oct.1, coinciding with the first day of filing of the CoCs.
A total of 3,263 police personnel have been deployed to secure the region throughout the candidacy filing period.
“These measures will remain in place until the process concludes, focusing on monitoring movement, detecting illegal firearms and contraband, and addressing potential threats,” the police regional command said in a statement on October 1.
The security detail includes visible and covert forces, with 523 personnel assigned to secure the Commission on Elections (Comelec) offices.
Additionally, 279 police assistance desks (PADs) have been set up at key locations, supported by 492 mobile patrols, 468 personnel for route and traffic management, and 1,148 officers stationed at checkpoints across the region.
An ambulance and medical team are on standby near the venues, while coordination with election officers at all levels ensures comprehensive security.
Pawid also urged candidates and the public to cooperate with authorities by following security protocols.
“PRO-8 assures the public that all security measures are in place, and the police force is ready to respond to any challenges during this period,” he said.
(RONALD O. REYES)
