PNP activates BARMM task force for midterm polls

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) activated a special task force in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) for security ahead of the 2025 midterm elections.

The creation of the task force on Monday followed the peace covenant signing among the region’s candidates at the 6th Infantry Division’s headquarters in Awang, Cotabato City, with PNP chief Gen. Rommel Marbil in attendance.

In a statement on Tuesday, the PNP said the task force will work with the Commission on Elections (Comelec), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to secure the elections in BARMM.

“This activation marks another significant step in a series of peace initiatives across BARMM’s mainland and island provinces, underscoring the collective effort to prevent election-related violence and maintain stability in the region,” the PNP said.

READ: Trust achieved in peace covenant signing in Maguindanao – Comelec chief

According to the Comelec, as of March 19, 36 areas in the country are under the red category, or areas with serious threats and a history of election-related violence.

READ: Comelec: Fewer areas under serious threats for 2025 polls

Thirty of the red category areas are in the BARMM.