DAVAO CITY — The Philippine Army announced on Friday that field units are already set for deployment for the conduct of the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections on 30 October.

The Army's 1001st Infantry Brigade has assured to do their best to make the political exercise safe, clean and peaceful.

1001IB commander Brig. Gen. Ronnie Babac — who is based in Maco town, Davao de Oro — said they must stand as guardians of peace and order, ensuring the democratic process will continue smoothly and without disruption.

"Our dedication to upholding the rule of law and maintaining a safe environment for voters to choose their candidates without fear and intimidation (must be sustained)" Babac said, adding that the troops' obligation to remain apolitical and fair.

The 1001IBde will be deployed to Davao de Oro province; four municipalities and one city in Davao del Norte; and portions of Agusan del Sur as its area of responsibility. The date and the number of soldiers to be sent out were not disclosed.

To realize their mission, the 1001IBde along with lawyer Norliza Mamukid, the Davao del Norte provincial election supervisor, conducted a seminar on Thursday afternoon designed to empower the troops on their duties and responsibilities once deployed.