CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA – With elections fast approaching, key agencies in Pampanga assured the public of tightened security measures and inclusive voting access during the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) Pampanga Chapter’s “Kapihan at Balitaan” forum held Tuesday, April 29, at Imang Nene, Orchids Garden.
Provincial Election Officer Atty. Lydia Pangilinan and Pampanga Police Director Col. Jay Dimaandal led discussions on preparations to ensure orderly and secure polls across the province.
Col. Dimaandal said the Philippine National Police (PNP) is ready to deploy 1,700 personnel throughout Pampanga, with at least two officers stationed at each of the 511 voting centers. Their top priorities include the safety of election materials and the protection of voters, candidates, and election officials.
“The PNP will be on full alert to ensure the integrity and safety of the electoral process,” he said, adding that close coordination is ongoing with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard, and other agencies.
Dimaandal also reported that as of this week, 87 firearms have been confiscated and 88 individuals arrested for violating the election gun ban.
Meanwhile, Pangilinan announced that early voting hours—between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m.—will be allotted for vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities (PWDs), senior citizens, and pregnant women. The initiative aims to improve accessibility for those who may struggle during peak voting hours.
She reminded the public that both vote-buying and vote-selling are considered election offenses and will be met with legal consequences.
Both officials emphasized their shared commitment to ensuring a fair, transparent, and safe electoral process in Pampanga.