18/04/2025
PNP STEPS UP SECURITY MEASURES TO ENSURE PEACEFUL MAY 2025 POLLS
As part of its intensified security operations for the 2025 midterm elections, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has conducted an impressive 254,355 COMELEC checkpoints nationwide since the election period began. With the gun ban in effect since January 12, 2025, the PNP continues to enforce strict measures to curb illegal fi****ms, prevent election-related violence, and uphold peace and order across the country.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring a peaceful and credible election process, which aligns with the PNP’s ongoing efforts to protect the democratic exercise and uphold public safety.
Over the past weeks, police forces have been working round the clock which resulted in the arrest of 971 individuals, many of whom were caught violating the election gun ban. Of those arrested, 106 were apprehended at COMELEC checkpoints, 417 during police responses, 149 in anti-illegal drug operations, 53 in gun buy-bust operations, and 246 in other law enforcement operations (OLEO).
The campaign against loose fi****ms has also yielded significant results, with 962 fi****ms confiscated through various police operations. These include 92 fi****ms seized at checkpoints, 418 recovered during police responses, 136 from anti-illegal drug operations, 53 from gun buy-bust operations, and 263 from other law enforcement operations.
While security efforts have been largely successful, two suspected election-related incidents have been reported, with one case confirmed as an election-related crime. In addition, thirteen non-election-related incidents have also been documented and swiftly addressed by authorities.
PNP Chief, Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil, underscored the police force’s dedication to ensuring a peaceful and credible electoral process. "The numbers speak for themselves—our intensified operations are in full force, and we will not let up. The PNP remains committed to safeguarding the electoral process by strictly enforcing the gun ban, neutralizing criminal activities, and preventing any attempts to disrupt the elections. We call on the public to cooperate, stay vigilant, and report any suspicious activities that may threaten the peace and integrity of this democratic exercise," PGen. Marbil said.
He further emphasized that the PNP remains strictly apolitical, ensuring that no member of the force engages in any partisan activities during the election period. "Anyone found violating these standards will face charges, including possible non-promotion or even dismissal from the service. The PNP will not tolerate any actions that undermine the integrity and impartiality of the elections," PGen. Marbil added.
With the campaign period for national candidates underway since February 12, 2025, the PNP remains on high alert, continuously strengthening security operations to ensure that the upcoming elections are free from violence, fear, and intimidation.
The PNP urges all Filipinos to support its efforts by adhering to election laws and security protocols. Through sustained vigilance and cooperation, the country moves closer to achieving a safe, peaceful, and orderly 2025 midterm elections.
