The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, under the leadership of acting director, P/Col. Leo Pamittan, launched the Kasimbayanan, or Kawani, Simbahan at Pamayanan, for the May 2022 elections, at its headquarters in Bacolod City Feb. 23.
The symbolic activity was held to showcase the commitment of the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard, and other security forces, the Commission on Elections, and other national government agencies that constitute the Kawani;
The Christian leaders and Islamic communities to comprise the Simbahan, and the Negrense people, referred to as the Pamayanan, to ensure secure, accurate, free, and fair national and local elections.
It was attended by Atty. Roberto Salazar – provincial election supervisor, P/Lt. Gen. Bernabe Balba, B/Gen. Inocencio Pasaporte of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army, and ensign Kimberly Albia of the PCG.
Also present were the religious leaders representing different denominations, namely Bro. Abdullatif Aparecio representing Omar Betita, the Muslim leader of DAR-ALDIKHR Islamic and Guidance Center, Fr. Francisco Perez for Bishop Patricio Buzon of the Diocese of Bacolod; pastor Nelson Cunahap for pastor Felix Tapang, interfaith coordinator in Negros Occidental; NOCPPO advocacy supports group representatives like pastor Antonio Antonio, president of the faith-based Lingkod Bayan Advocacy Support Group; Roed Bais, president of the Kabataan Kontra Droga at Terorismo; force multipliers president Arman Pabalate; and Myla Espende, president of the Alliance for Industrial Peace Program.
Highlights of the event were the lighting of the SAFE Candles and Pinning of the SAFE 2022 Pin, manifesto signing, and releasing of white doves that symbolize peace in the May 9 polls.
Meanwhile, the PNP said it took offense when actor Marc Manicad, wearing a police uniform, posted this photo alongside a text content that expresses support to a presidential candidate, and now circulating on social media.
“The PNP has nothing to do with this. The PNP is not in the business of making any political statement nor meddling in campaign-related activities of certain candidates.
“We take offense in this unwarranted misrepresentation of the police organization for purposes of political mileage and propaganda. It is certainly most unfair and uncalled for, especially that it may confuse the general public,” it added in a statement Feb. 23.
The PNP maintains a non-partisan stance and will never endorse any political party or candidate vying for any elective position. “We demand the owner of the concerned Facebook page to immediately take down this picture and issue a public apology without prejudice to any legal action that the PNP may take.” | NND
