DAVAO CITY — The Police Regional Office -12 has recalled some 679 police personnel from its Police Security and Protection Group (PSPG) on orders of the Commissionon Elections to help in securing the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections scheduled on October 30, 2023.
Police Brig. Gen Leo Francisco the acting director for operations simultaneously presented the recalled personnel to PNP Chief Benjamin Acorda at the PNP Transformation Oval, Camp Crame, Quezon City and the regional offices across the nation via online platforms.
“This recall serves as a reminder of our duty to the people and the nation. As you return to your units, let your actions reflect the ideals of a just and democratic society”, Acorda said
“Additionally, this recall serves as a proactive measure to prevent any undue influence, conflicts of interest, or perceptions of impropriety during the electoral process. Our priority is to uphold the principles of democracy and ensure that every citizen’s voice is heard”, he added.
The initiative is in accordance with COMELEC Resolution 10918, which outlines the Rules and Regulations on the Ban on the Bearing, Carrying, or Transporting of Firearms or Other Deadly Weapons, as well as the Employment, Availment, or Engagement of the Services of Security Personnel or Bodyguards during the Election Period.
The Election Period, commencing on August 28, 2023, marks the initiation of a Period of Prohibition that extends until November 29, 2023. During this time, the COMELEC regulations dictate the suspension of activities involving the carrying of firearms or other deadly weapons and the employment of security personnel or bodyguards by incumbent public officials, whether elected or appointed, as well as private individuals.
Of the total 920 protective security personnel stationed nationwide, 679 PSPG personnel are subject to recall. Among these, 495 are responsible for safeguarding 285 government officials, while 425 are entrusted with the security of 309 private individuals.
Those recalled will undergo refresher and specialization courses while awaiting redeployment after the election period.
To facilitate the application for the issuance of a Certificate of Authority for Security Detail (CA-SD), eligible individuals, including incumbent public officials and private citizens, are encouraged to submit their requests online through the COMELEC website. The electronic filing system has been operational since June 5, 2023, and will remain open until November 15, 2023. As of August 24, 2023, a total of 295 applications have been received for CA-SD, with 49 having already received approval.
The PNP remains committed to upholding the principles of safety and security during the electoral process. By enforcing these measures, the PNP aims to contribute to the fairness and integrity of the upcoming elections, ensuring a peaceful and democratic transition of power at the grassroots level.
