PNP, AFP reminded to name hot spots
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has ordered security forces to immediately submit the list of potential flashpoints in the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on Oct. 30.
Comelec Chair George Erwin Garcia said the Philippine National Police and Armed Forces of the Philippines are taking too long in submitting the list of areas recommended to be placed under Comelec control.
Suppress threats
During an election period, the Comelec may place areas under its direct control and sideline the authority of local government units to suppress potential election-related violence.
Once an area has been placed under its control, the Comelec may reshuffle or relieve police personnel, order the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to suppress threats of election violence, relieve any public officer or employee who commits election offenses, and direct the Department of Finance (DOF) to comply with Comelec orders.
PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. briefed Comelec officials on Thursday on their assessment that violence might erupt in 27 areas in the country, mostly in Mindanao, during the elections.
However, the PNP stopped short of recommending placing these 27 areas under Comelec control, until they have coordinated with the military and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
Security assessment
“We feel that it’s already taking too long and we still don’t have the [list of recommended] areas of concern,” Garcia said at a press conference with the PNP officials after the briefing.
He said the PNP is apparently waiting for the security assessment of the AFP and the PCG.
“We will request the AFP and PCG to please immediately submit their findings so we can consolidate. Our deadline is this should be finalized before the end of September so that the Comelec can plan its action,” said Garcia.
RELATED STORIES
Comelec says no required registration fees for BSKE candidates
Comelec to serve show cause orders vs 174 BSKE bets for early campaigning
