by Christopher Lloyd Caliwan/PNA
The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) is all set to secure the metropolis as the campaign period for local candidates begins on Friday.
NCRPO Director, Maj. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, said a total of 14,000 police personnel will be deployed in Metro Manila.
He also ordered all district directors to intensify police operations against private armed groups, criminal gangs, wanted persons, gun-for-hire groups and loose firearms.
The order covers the Manila Police District (MPD), Quezon City Police District (QCPD), Northern Police District (NPD), Southern Police District (SPD), and the Eastern Police District (EPD).
“We will also increase the frequency of checkpoints in the metropolis to help deter criminal minds in executing their evil designs. I have strict orders to our commanders in the field to observe proper procedures and professionalism when conducting the checkpoints,” Eleazar said.
He said the public may report discourteous and abusive police personnel to the nearest police station or at the NCRPO.
“I ask the public to be patient and understanding, as our security activities are for the good of everybody,” Eleazar said.
Eleazar said the start of the campaign period also triggered strict additional rules set by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
“For the campaign period for local candidates, prohibited acts include appointment/hiring of new employees, creation of new positions, salary increases, and release/disbursement of public funds, among others,” Eleazar said.
“(These) restrictions are in addition to certain acts already prohibited during the election period which include the gun ban and use of security personnel and/or bodyguards by those seeking positions unless authorized by the poll body, among others,” he added.
The gun ban is in effect from January 13 to June 12.
The NCRPO director also called on all police officers to be non-partisan in handling political cases.
“I am reminding the local candidates to properly coordinate with the authorities concerned to secure necessary permits for their political rallies and mitings de avance. The proper permits and clearances will pave the way for a more secure and orderly gathering for candidates, audiences and the entire neighborhood,” he said.
The campaign period for local candidates, such as governors, mayors, vice mayors and members of the House of Representatives will last from March 29 to May 11.
