PNP monitoring potential use of armed groups in BARMM, Soccsksargen ahead of polls

Facade of the PNP headquarters in Camp Crame. Image from pnp.gov.ph website

MANILA, Philippines — Ahead of the May elections, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is monitoring the potential use of violent groups in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and Region 12 or Soccsksargen.

In a press conference, PNP chief General Dionardo Carlos was asked about their monitoring of politicians’ usage of private armed groups to their advantage.

“Ang amin pong titingnan ay nasa BARMM at Region 12,” he answered.

(We’re looking at BARMM and Region 12.)

“Galing na rin po ako ng BARMM at [Region] 12, kinausap ko na rin sila. May initial steps na sila na to address or to talk, to dialogue with the groups that na mayroong identified na may mga armadong grupo sila,” added Carlos.

(I went to BARMM and Region 12, I talked to them. They have initial steps to address or to talk, to dialogue with the groups that have identified armed groups.)

Dionardo assured that the police force is ready should there be a threat to security.

“Kung meron talagang threat to security, then du’n kami papasok,” he said.

(If there is a threat to security, we will take necessary actions.)

The campaign period for the May 9 elections started on February 8 for national candidates and it will kick off on March 25 for local bets.

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