• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
As the Police Regional Office 6 starts beefing up security measures for the 2025 elections, regional police director Brig. Gen. Jack Wanky reminded police officers to remain non-partisan.
The reminder was made by Wanky as the election period starts with the filing of certificates of candidacy (COC) on October 1 to 8.
During a command conference at Camp Delgado in Iloilo City, he ordered provincial and city police directors to coordinate with their respective Election Officers and Supervisors, to plan for the specific and suitable deployment of their personnel, with security measures based on the prevailing situation and peculiarity in their respective areas, to ensure that the upcoming elections will be peaceful and orderly.
Wanky, however, reminded them that the focus on election preparations must not overshadow their anti-criminality campaigns and anti-illegal drugs operations.
Among the security measures up for implementation by PRO 6 are increased police visibility in identified public places, checkpoints, intensified intelligence monitoring, and other police actions and interventions that will prevent the occurrence of crimes.
He further reminded all police personnel to always uphold law and order, with high respect for human rights, and to perform their duties professionally.
In a statement, PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil issued a stern warning to its officers against engaging in partisan politics.
The PNP is tasked with protecting the democratic process, not participating in it, Marbil said.
“I am reminding every officer that political neutrality is a core responsibility. Do not allow yourselves to be influenced or used by politicians,” he added.
Marbil encouraged the public to cooperate with the PNP during the election period, and to report irregularities involving law enforcers.*
