Basilan security forces intensify coordination ahead of BARMM polls

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur – Security and election officials in Basilan have stepped up operational preparations for the upcoming Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections (BPE) as the Provincial Joint Security Control Center (PJSCC) convened a command conference on Wednesday, Sept., to reinforce coordination and readiness across the province.

The meeting, held at the Basilan Police Provincial Office (BPPO) Conference Hall in Barangay Menzi,Isabela City, was presided over by Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Roberto Dela Peña and hosted by BPPO director Col. Edison Dumangas.

Gathered were BPPO command personnel, provincial staff, chiefs of police, company commanders, and representatives from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard, and partner agencies tasked with securing the electoral process.

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Dumangas stressed the urgency of unified action as election day nears with the priority to ensure that the people of Basilan are able to exercise their right to vote in a peaceful, safe, and orderly environment. 

He said the BPPO, together with their partner agencies, is prepared to implement the necessary security measures throughout the electoral process.

Discussions centered on security deployment, intelligence sharing, inter-agency coordination, and rapid response mechanisms to prevent election-related violence and address potential threats.

Dela Peña stressed the role of security partners in safeguarding the integrity of the BARMM polls on Sept. 14.

The PJSCC reviewed coordination mechanisms and preparations designed to maintain peace and order before, during, and after the parliamentary election. /mr