In Cabanatuan City, the head of the Central Luzon police has taken decisive steps to ensure the safety and fairness of the upcoming national and local elections. Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, who leads the Police Regional Office 3, has mandated the appointment of liaison officers to act as key contacts for addressing candidates’ issues. Fajardo emphasized the importance of neutrality, stating, ‘We must address their concerns so they do not feel we are biased towards anyone.’ This statement was made following a command conference in the city.
Fajardo has also issued strict orders to chiefs of police to prevent any friction or tension among candidates, which she believes could lead to disturbances. She has made it clear that any police personnel found working as unauthorized security for politicians will face severe consequences. Although she did not specify the locations, Fajardo mentioned that a significant number of officers have been reported for such activities.
She warned that any confirmed cases of moonlighting would result in both criminal and administrative actions against the involved officers, with potential repercussions for their superiors as well. During her visit, Fajardo also reviewed the police’s readiness, including their mobility, safety equipment, and the number of firearms collected from previous operations and those surrendered by owners.