Puerto Princesa ramps up security for May 2025 elections

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY — The local elections commission, in coordination with law enforcement agencies, has started setting up checkpoints in strategic locations across 66 barangays in this city ahead of the 12 May national and local elections.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Aristotle Castillo, deputy city director for operations at the Puerto Princesa City Police Office (PPCPO), said Sunday that nine checkpoints had been established to cover the said number of barangays.

These are being jointly manned by personnel from PPCPO's five police stations, the Coast Guard Station Central Palawan, the Philippine National Police’s Highway Patrol Group, and the 3rd Marine Brigade.

On Sunday morning, City Election Officer Atty. Julius Cuevas inspected these checkpoints to ensure their proper operation.

"The primary focus of our enforcement is the gun ban," Castillo stated.

"But aside from illegal firearms, we’re also looking out for other prohibited contraband and deadly weapons," he added.

Castillo reiterated the importance of adhering to the guidelines for checkpoint operations, as emphasized by Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Percival Mendoza during the first Provincial Joint Security Control Center meeting held on 8 January.

"Personnel must observe proper conduct and appearance, maintain heightened security awareness, and remain vigilant at all times," Castillo stressed, urging public cooperation.

"We ask for your patience with this minor inconvenience; it’s all for everyone’s safety," he said.

Castillo underscored the significance of strictly implementing election-related policies, particularly the gun ban, to ensure a smooth and peaceful electoral process.

He also reminded checkpoint personnel to uphold Commission on Elections' (COMELEC) guidelines while ensuring that human rights are respected during operations.

The intensified security measures, he said, aim to provide a safe and secure environment for voters, candidates, and election officials as the countdown to the 2025 polls begins.

Checkpoints have also been set up in Palawan province to secure 367 barangays in 23 municipalities, according to Palawan Police Provincial Office (PalPPO) spokesperson Police Major Ric Ramos.