The election security measures in the MIMAROPA region are in place with no reported election-related incidents so far, according to the Police Regional Office (PRO) MIMAROPA.
Since the activation of the Regional Election Monitoring Action Center (REMAC) in January, the PRO has been actively implementing election security measures across the region.
PRO MIMAROPA Information Officer, Police Lieutenant Arianne Kytel Barcelona, said that as of February 20, while no suspected or validated election-related incidents have been reported, a total of four gun ban violation cases have been recorded. These violations were primarily detected through police response and patrol operations, as well as a buy-bust operation involving firearms and illegal drugs.
A total of 16 items have been confiscated, including small arms, ammunition, and other prohibited items. These confiscations prevent the illegal possession and use of firearms during the election period. Three civilians and one foreign national have also been arrested. However, no uniformed personnel have been apprehended.
Barcelona said that there are over 10,400 COMELEC checkpoints being implemented throughout the region. Notably, no violations were recorded at any of these checkpoints or during incidents related to lawful arrests.
As the election period progresses, Barcelona assured that the police officers, in coordination with other agencies, will work together to maintain peace and security in the region.
“Rest assured that PRO MIMAROPA, in close coordination with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and other deputized government agencies, is working tirelessly to uphold peace and security throughout this critical period. We assure the electorate that we will maintain our neutrality and enforce the law without bias or favor,” she said.
She added that PRO MIMAROPA will continue to uphold its mandate of securing the 2025 national and local elections and will remain committed to serve and protect the public with the highest level of professionalism and integrity. (AS/PIA MIMAROPA-Oriental Mindoro)
