By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has ordered its commanders to maintain professionalism and restraint as the military prepares to assist in securing the first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) on September 14.
AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said Tuesday that commanders deployed at the ground level have been directed to remain alert and responsive while ensuring that their actions uphold democratic processes during the elections.
Padilla said the AFP’s security role is focused on protecting the ability of Bangsamoro voters to freely exercise their right to choose their representatives.
She said the military will continue adjusting its security preparations according to developments and conditions in various areas as election day draws closer.
“As the elections approach, we will continuously adjust our security preparations based on what is happening in different areas,” Padilla said.
She added that the AFP remains vigilant and prepared to support efforts aimed at ensuring that the BARMM parliamentary elections are conducted peacefully, orderly and credibly.
The military will carry out its election-security responsibilities in support of the Philippine National Police, according to Padilla.
She said preventing violence and protecting communities remain central to the AFP’s mission during the polls.
“But ang priority po natin remains clear: to prevent violence, protect communities, and create a secure environment where Bangsamoro voters can exercise their right to vote freely and without fear,” Padilla said.
The September 14 elections will be the first parliamentary polls to be held in the BARMM, placing security forces in a key support role as Bangsamoro voters cast their ballots for their parliamentary representatives.
ia/xf
