In a significant assurance to the public, the Philippine Army stationed in Negros Oriental has pledged to maintain security during the upcoming May 12 elections, despite its ongoing transition from internal to external defense roles. This commitment was made clear during a Peace Covenant signing and Interfaith Prayer Rally organized by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Dumaguete City.
Col. Leroy Daanton, the deputy commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade based in Tanjay City, emphasized the Army’s dedication to safeguarding the electoral process. He spoke on behalf of Brig. Gen. Joey Escanillas, who was absent due to his participation in a campaign planning workshop in Iloilo. This workshop focused on the strategic shift of the Armed Forces of the Philippines from internal security operations to territorial defense.
Despite this transition, Daanton reassured attendees that Army units would continue their active role in securing their designated areas against any threats that could disrupt the elections. The 302nd Infantry Brigade, along with the 301st in Dingle, Iloilo, and the 303rd on Negros Island, fall under the 3rd Infantry Division, which oversees security in Western Visayas, Central Visayas, and the Negros Island Region.
In addition to the brigades, three infantry battalions—the 11th, 94th, and 62nd—are currently engaged in internal security operations in Negros Oriental. Earlier in the day, during a meeting of the Provincial Joint Security Control Center, Daanton updated members, including representatives from Comelec and the Philippine National Police, on the ongoing transition.
He also reported that all guerrilla fronts of the New People’s Army in Negros have been dismantled, though remnants remain active and are under close surveillance.