Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has issued a stern warning to police officers, stating that any involvement in partisan politics during the upcoming May midterm elections will result in no promotions. Speaking at the 72nd founding anniversary of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) at Camp Crame in Quezon City, Marbil emphasized the importance of maintaining an apolitical stance within the police force during election periods. He stressed that officers who allow themselves to be manipulated by politicians or candidates will face consequences, including the loss of promotional opportunities. Marbil’s message was clear: the PNP aims to uphold public respect by remaining strictly apolitical. To enforce this policy, Marbil mentioned plans to collaborate with the National Security Council and the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency. He urged officers to resist being used by political figures, reinforcing the need for an unbiased police force. In addition to addressing political involvement, Marbil highlighted other election-related challenges, such as the spread of fake news and the traditional issues of guns, goons, and gold. He announced that the PNP is developing a strategy to combat fake news, which will be proposed to the Commission on Elections (Comelec), alongside measures to tackle vote-buying through e-wallets. Marbil also directed the CIDG to ramp up efforts against loose firearms and ordered increased police presence in areas identified as election hotspots to ensure peace and order. The PNP is currently managing Comelec checkpoints to enforce a gun ban, effective from January 12 to June 11, as per Comelec Resolution No. 10999. The campaign period for senators and party-list representatives will run from February 11 to May 10, while local candidates can campaign from March 28 to May 10.
Philippine National Police Chief Warns Against Political Involvement in Upcoming Elections
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