CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, DOS, Maguindanao del Norte – Amidst the intricate task of safeguarding the BSKE 2023, the AFP and the PNP in BARRM have joined forces. They are fully-committed to taking every necessary effort in response to COMELEC Chairman Atty. George Erwin Garcia’s firm resolve to proceed with the election based on the schedule released by the commission.
The implementation of these security measures was discussed during the Regional Joint Security Control Center (RJSCC) meeting held on August 31, 2023, at the Alnor Hotel and Convention Center, located along Sinsuat Avenue in Rosary Heights IX, Cotabato City. During the meeting, respective comprehensive plans of the different components of the RJSCC were laid out to address the security challenges that may arise during the upcoming elections.
Lieutenant General Roy Galido, the Commanding General of the Philippine Army and the current Commander of the Western Mindanao Command (WMC), affirmed the commitment of the security forces to ensure the successful conduct of the Barangay and SK Elections within BARMM. He emphasized that the elections will proceed following the schedule set by the COMELEC.
The COMELEC Chairman, Atty. George Erwin Garcia, led the meeting and reiterated the importance of upholding the integrity of the electoral process. Also present at the meeting were Major General Steve Crespillo, the Vice Commander of the Philippine Army, who is expected to assume the role as the 17th Commander of the Western Mindanao Command; and Major General Alex S. Rillera, the Commander of the 6th Infantry Division (6ID) and Joint Task Force Central. The meeting was also attended by officials from the PNP, BARMM and other stakeholders.
In the previous meetings, Major General Rillera highlighted the readiness of the Kampilan Troopers to ensure security during the elections. He emphasized the heightened monitoring of areas of concern within Maguindanao Provinces and SGA, and the increased implementation of checkpoints and security efforts in collaboration with other security forces.
####
