The Police Regional Office 11 (PRO 11) held a simultaneous multi-agency send-off and turnover ceremony of security forces who will be deployed in various areas to ensure a peaceful 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) at Camp Merecido, Buhangin, Davao City on Monday.
A total of 10,622 personnel will render election duties consist of 7,288 from the Philippine National Police (PNP), 3,195 from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and 139 from the Philippine Coastguard Group (PCG).
They were turned over to Commission on Elections 11 (Comelec 11) acting regional director lawyer Gay Enumerables.
Various vehicles for mobilization, communication devices, and other necessary equipment and machinery were also provided.
In addition, personnel from the Department of Education 11 (DepEd 11) who will perform election duties were also endorsed.
PRO 11 vowed to work with its allied safekeeping forces hand-in-hand to deploy more security forces strategically to prevent any election-related violence or incidents.
“Every one of you has a crucial part to play in ensuring a secure environment where citizens can exercise their right to vote freely and without any apprehension. Your professionalism, impartiality, and commitment to upholding the rule of law form the very foundation of our electoral process,” said Enumerables in her message during the ceremony.
Enumerables encouraged the members of the security forces to embrace collaboration and coordination, despite representing different agencies.
“By working together harmoniously, we can ensure a cohesive and efficient approach to safeguarding the electoral proceedings. It is crucial to remember that our collective efforts are vital in fostering an atmosphere of trust and confidence among voters, candidates, and all stakeholders involved,” she said.
Enumerables also said that with the transfer of the responsibility of resources, it is of utmost importance that they uphold transparency, accountability, and meticulous attention to detail.
She urged each of the officers to approach their responsibilities with enthusiasm and unwavering dedication and take time to familiarize themselves with the resources and procedures drawing upon the experiences of those who came before them.
“By building upon their successes, we can assure a seamless continuation of our mission. By upholding human rights, protecting freedom of expression, and maintaining a respectful and approachable demeanor towards voters, candidates, and other stakeholders, we can create an environment that exemplifies the values we hold dear,” she said.
She expressed her complete confidence in each security force and their unwavering commitment to duty and dedication to the democratic process, which are two of the most essential keys to a safe and credible BSKE 2023.
Enumerables assured Comelec regional office is ready for BSKE. She said the briefing for the teachers was already finished and they already received the accountable forms.
“Comelec is ready for Monday. We’re just waiting for the distribution of the election paraphernalia on the day of the earlier, even a day before kasi may mga early deliveries kami,” she said.
