By Priam Nepomuceno/PNA
MANILA — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will conduct a final check on the security arrangement for the plebiscite on the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) within the week.
This was bared by AFP public affairs office chief Col. Noel Detoyato when asked Tuesday on whether the military will hoist its alert status and security preparations for the coming polls.
“AFP troops are pre-deployed so as of now, very minimal na ang movement. We will have a final check on the security arrangements this week to determine if there are gaps to be filled and adjustments to be made as situation usually becomes fluid as the event comes closer,” he said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.
The military is earmarking around 10,000 personnel and support units to help secure the BOL plebiscite, along with the Philippine National Police (PNP).
“Rest assured, the AFP together with the PNP and with the big help from OPAPP (Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process), the LGUs (local government units) and MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) leadership, the coming plebiscite will be conducted smoothly,” Detoyato added.
Earlier, the AFP public affairs office chief said the military will do everything in its authority to ensure the successful and peaceful conduct of all election-related activities this year.
“(The) AFP is deputized by the Comelec (Commission on Elections) so we will dedicate our efforts for the successful conduct of the BOL plebiscite and the incoming midterm elections,” Detoyato said.
The BOL plebiscite is slated for Jan. 21 and Feb. 6 while the mid-term elections is on May 13.
“Our combat operations and other security operations will always be in support to the honest, orderly and peaceful conduct of Comelec-sanctioned activities,” Detoyato said.
