PNP tells election candidates to ‘uphold rule of law’ as campaign begins

This photo taken on January 24, 2024 shows Philippine National Police (PNP) officers gathering for the pre-launching of Bangon Pilipinas Kick-off Rally held outside the PNP National Headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City. (INQUIRER files /LYN RILLON)

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) told candidates in the 2025 national and local elections to “uphold the rule of law” as the campaign season kicked off.

“Based on the consolidated reports from the PNP National Election Monitoring Action Center (NEMAC), there were no major incidents recorded throughout the [first day of the campaign period],” the national police force said in a statement on Wednesday, Feb. 12.

“While the initial day of the campaign period proceeded smoothly, the PNP urges all candidates, their supporters and the general public to uphold peace, order and the rule of law as the campaign season progresses,” it added.

The campaign season for national candidates and party-lists officially began on Tuesday, Feb. 11.

It will end on May 10.

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“We call on the public to report any election-related concerns to the nearest police station or through our designated hotlines and social media platforms,” the PNP said.

“We continue to implement strict adherence to election-related laws, particularly the gun ban and other security measures, in coordination with the Commission on Elections and other agencies,” it added.

READ: PNP chief Marbil: ‘Partisan’ officers to face sanctions

On Tuesday, PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Marbil maintained that the police force “was not influenced by political affiliations,” warning that active duty police officers who are “partisan” will face sanctions.