CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – The Philippine National Police (PNP) assured the public that it will continue its post-election security operations to ensure a smooth and peaceful transition of power to re-elected and newly elected officials in Central Luzon.
With the canvassing of votes and proclamation of winning candidates completed, Police Regional Office 3 Regional Director PBGen Jean Fajardo said their focus has now shifted to assisting the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in the safe return of election equipment and documents, and to prevent any post-election disruptions.
“Although the voting and canvassing are done, we still strictly monitor remaining post-election activities in order to ensure smooth turnover of responsibilities to our new set of local leaders,” she said.
Security escorts remain deployed for the transport of election materials and official documents to Comelec storage facilities.
Fajardo noted that the transition period is critical, especially in areas with reported intense political rivalries.
She stressed that law enforcement agencies are working closely with local government units, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Philippine Coast Guard to maintain peace and order.
As of May 13, 56 cases of vote buying were reported in the region; 53 of which remain under validation.
In addition, 39 cases of liquor ban violation were reported across the region, and no incidence of harassment reported.
“We are thankful for the cooperation of the public and other stakeholders. But we still urge everyone to remain vigilant as the transition phase continues,” Fajardo said.
She assured that the PNP will continue its proactive stance until all re-elected and newly elected officials formally assume office by the end of June.
“We will stay the course until we see every public servant take their oath in a peaceful and orderly environment. The integrity of our democratic processes must be preserved until the very end,” she pressed. (CLJD/MJSC, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)