In a show of unity, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the Davao City police have formalized their commitment to support the upcoming 2025 parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The solidarity pact was signed at Camp Quintin M. Merecido in Davao City on February 5, 2025, aiming to foster a peaceful, fair, and transparent electoral process.
The elections, set to coincide with the national and local elections on May 12, have prompted Comelec-11 regional director Michael Abas to reaffirm the commission’s dedication to a just and tranquil voting environment in BARMM. Abas proposed the deployment of approximately 500 personnel from the Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 to assist if necessary.
The signing event saw participation from officials of Comelec-11, PRO-11, and various government agencies, all pledging to uphold the rule of law and safeguard the well-being of voters and election staff. Abas emphasized their commitment to preventing election-related violence and fraud.
Brig. Gen. Leon Victor Rosete, director of PRO-11, echoed this sentiment, stating that the Philippine National Police is fully dedicated to ensuring a fair and peaceful election. The gathering was described as a symbol of solidarity among the involved parties.