More troops, tanks coming to beef up security for Bangsamoro polls

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is set to deploy armored personnel carriers (APCs), mobile artillery systems, additional ground troops and air assets to Lanao del Sur as part of intensified security measures for the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections (BPE) on Sept. 14.

Maj. Noelio Brigole, spokesperson of the Army’s 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, said the additional deployment forms part of the AFP’s regular election security measures, which include the strategic positioning and movement of troops and assets to areas requiring additional support.

The augmentation includes Sabrah tanks and ATMOS (Autonomous Truck Mounted Howitzer System) 155mm artillery systems, which will reinforce armored and fire-support units already prepositioned in the province, complementing the 10 battalions currently deployed there.

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The 29th and 30th Infantry Battalions will also serve as follow-on forces, while Black Hawk and T129 ATAK helicopters will provide aviation support to enhance mobility, surveillance, and responsiveness throughout the election period.

“These preparations are preventive and protective in nature,” Brigole said, stressing that the strengthened posture is designed to deter lawless armed elements from resorting to violence or intimidation.

Brigole did not say when the additional augmentation will be deployed.

He noted that the AFP’s presence should not cause alarm among local communities but instead encourage voters to freely exercise their democratic rights.

The Tabak Division assured residents that the coordinated deployment of troops and assets reflects the AFP’s continuing commitment to peace and stability.

“Our mission is to help ensure the safe, peaceful, and orderly conduct of the elections,” Brigole said. /mr