LEGAZPI CITY – The Department of Education in Bicol, known as DepEd-5, has begun the process of preparing its classrooms and training its teachers for the upcoming national and local elections scheduled for May 12. According to DepEd-5 Director Gilbert Sadsad, approximately 30,000 teachers are expected to take on roles as election board inspectors, though this number may change as further evaluations regarding candidate qualifications, health, and technical skills are conducted. With two to three months remaining before the elections, preparations are in full swing. Classes are set to conclude on April 15, allowing teachers a respite from their regular duties, except for those involved in election training. DepEd Bicol is also addressing classroom issues, particularly in typhoon-affected areas like Catanduanes and parts of Camarines Sur. Sadsad highlighted the educational value of holding elections in schools, noting that it familiarizes students with the electoral process, which is crucial for their understanding of civic duties as they approach voting age. He emphasized that school elections for class officers serve as a practical lesson in democracy, teaching students about the reasons for elections and the voting process itself, thereby instilling a sense of responsibility and awareness of their rights as future voters. On the security front, the Police Regional Office-Bicol (PRO-5) has been active in enforcing the election gun ban, arresting 15 individuals for violations between January 12 and February 16. Albay reported the highest number of arrests at six, followed by Masbate with three, and Sorsogon and Camarines Norte with two each, while Camarines Sur and Naga City each had one arrest. Authorities seized 16 firearms and 131 rounds of ammunition during these operations. PRO-5 has encouraged gun owners with expired licenses to surrender their firearms voluntarily or deposit them for safekeeping, resulting in 68 firearms being surrendered and 206 deposited. To maintain order during the election period, PRO-5 has conducted 6,384 checkpoints across the region, aiming to prevent unauthorized firearm possession and other election-related crimes. PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon affirmed the police’s commitment to maintaining law and order, with ongoing operations and enhanced coordination with other law enforcement agencies and stakeholders.
