Election and security officials in Negros Oriental have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring safe, accurate, free, and fair (SAFE) Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), even as preparations continue amid the possibility of a postponement.
The commitment was made during a Solidarity Conference of National and Local Government Agencies at the Philippine Army’s 302nd Infantry Brigade headquarters in Tanjay City Sept. 24.
Capt. Stephen Polinar, spokesperson of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (NOrPPO), said the pledge followed a briefing by Commission on Elections-Negros Island Region (Comelec-NIR) regional election director Lionel Marco Castillano on the latest status of the BSKE.
“Maybe we will know what will happen if the President signs the enrolled bill,” Castillano said, referring to the bill rescheduling the November BSKE to 2028 that has been transmitted to the Palace.
Polinar said Castillano explained that election preparations would continue pending President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s action on the enrolled bill.
Castillano said the situation could become clearer once the President acts on the measure, adding that if signed, the law would take effect immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette.
Pending Marcos’ decision, election stakeholders were instructed to continue preparations and await an official announcement in the coming days.
The filing of certificates of candidacy is also expected to proceed on Monday unless the postponement measure takes effect, Castillano said.
He added that some parties could seek a temporary restraining order from the Supreme Court.
Meanwhile, NOrPPO acting provincial director, Col. Jonathan Abella, reaffirmed the police force’s readiness to maintain peace and order, ensure public safety, and protect the people’s rights and security during the election period.
Polinar quoted Abella as saying the NOrPPO would implement security measures in coordination with Comelec and other institutional partners to prevent threats, address emerging concerns, and maintain a peaceful and secure environment in communities.
The police also committed to protecting the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that qualified voters can exercise their right to vote freely and safely, without fear, intimidation, or undue influence.
The Philippine Army likewise reaffirmed its commitment to support efforts to maintain peace and security during the election period in coordination with the Comelec, Philippine National Police, and other government agencies. | PNA
