ZAMBOANGA CITY (August 9) — More soldiers are heading to Lanao del Sur as authorities tighten security ahead of the first Bangsamoro parliamentary elections on Sept. 14.
The Philippine Army has deployed the 28th Infantry Battalion (28IB) to the province as an augmentation force, adding another layer of security as communities prepare to cast their votes in the historic polls.
The battalion, from the Army’s 10th Infantry Division, is now under the operational control of the 101st Infantry Brigade (101IB).
Brig. Gen. Yasser Bara, commander of the 101IB, welcomed the troops led by Lt. Col. Elben Naval during a ceremony Friday at the brigade headquarters in Barangay Matalin, Malabang.
For communities preparing for election day, the deployment is more than a routine military movement. It is part of a wider effort to make sure voters can go to polling places without fear, intimidation or disruption.
“The arrival of the 28th IB marks a significant enhancement of the brigade’s operational capability,” Bara said.
Security before the ballot
The 28IB will reinforce the brigade’s ongoing security operations within its area of responsibility, particularly as election preparations intensify.
The Army said the additional troops are tasked with helping ensure that the elections are peaceful, orderly, honest and credible.
The battalion previously operated from Barangay Poblacion in Magpet, North Cotabato, before being deployed to Lanao del Sur.
Bara said he is confident the new troops will carry out their duties with professionalism and discipline.
More troops on the way
The 101IB is not stopping with the 28IB.
A provisional battalion from the Army’s 1st Infantry Division is also expected to augment the brigade. The unit was organized specifically to support security operations for the Bangsamoro parliamentary elections.
The buildup underscores the importance placed on securing the first parliamentary polls under the Bangsamoro political transition.
For voters, the challenge is straightforward: reach the polling place safely, cast their ballots freely and return home peacefully.
For the military and other security forces, that means keeping communities secure while ensuring that the presence of armed personnel does not overshadow the democratic process.
The Army said it remains committed to protecting voters and helping create a secure environment for the Sept. 14 elections, a milestone that will shape the political future of the Bangsamoro region.
