As the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) gears up for its first parliamentary elections on September 14, police forces have been instructed to uphold a non-partisan stance. This order is aimed at ensuring the integrity and credibility of the electoral process.
Police Leadership Emphasizes Impartiality
Above all, let us maintain our political neutrality. Bear in mind that the world is watching us in this first election in the BARMM.
Brig. Gen. Christopher Abecia, PRO-BAR Director
Brigadier General Christopher Abecia, the director of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro (PRO-BAR), highlighted the essential role of law enforcement in ensuring a peaceful voting process. He urged all police personnel to demonstrate professionalism and uphold their commitment to neutrality.
In preparation for these historic elections, security operations are intensifying, especially in the 27 municipalities identified as high-risk due to a history of election-related violence. The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has placed these areas under strict monitoring.
The enforcement of an election gun ban is now in effect, with instructions for police to maintain order while respecting citizens' rights. Abecia called for close supervision of personnel to ensure they remain focused and mission-oriented.
Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia clarified that the classification of the 'red category' does not imply ongoing violence but rather reflects historical precedents from previous elections, marking these areas as priorities for monitoring.
The election will determine 80 members of the Bangsamoro Parliament, a significant step in the implementation of the Bangsamoro peace process, which aims to establish a more stable and representative governance structure in the region.