The Mimaropa region, encompassing Oriental and Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan, has maintained a clean record with no election-related incidents since the election period commenced on January 12, according to the Police Regional Office (PRO) 4B. Brig. Gen. Roger Quesada, the head of PRO-4B, emphasized the region’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful and orderly election on May 12 through rigorous security measures.
In efforts to secure the election period, PRO Mimaropa has enforced a strict gun ban by the Commission on Elections (Comelec), leading to the arrest of four individuals. Authorities have also seized two small firearms, eight rounds of ammunition, and six other prohibited items, including replicas, improvised weapons, and bladed instruments. These actions were taken under Comelec Resolution No. 10728, which bans firearms and other deadly weapons during elections.
Quesada highlighted the effectiveness of nearly 10,000 checkpoints in maintaining peace during the campaign period. He pledged to collaborate with Comelec, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Department of Education, and other stakeholders to prevent any election-related disturbances.
The public has been encouraged to report any instances of electoral fraud, particularly vote-buying, which undermines the election’s integrity. Quesada stressed the importance of public vigilance in holding violators accountable. Additionally, he called on all candidates to maintain integrity and comply fully with the law during their campaigns.