The 11th Infantry "Alakdan" Division, through the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade stationed in Luuk, Sulu, conducted an assessment on the readiness of soldiers in Banguingui, Sulu, to safeguard the sanctity of ballots in the forthcoming National and Local Elections (NLE) on 12 May.

1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos said yesterday, “It is very important to check on the readiness of our troops in Banguingui town because the mid-term NLE is approaching.”

Delos Santos visited the troops of the Charlie Company, 101st Infantry “Sajahitra” Battalion, and the 112nd Division Reconnaissance Company and conducted an assessment on the soldiers' operational readiness, morale, and logistical preparedness during his visit to Banguingui town on Wednesday.

“This assessment we are conducting is to ensure they (soldiers) are fully equipped to maintain peace and security during the election period,” he said.

Delos Santos emphasized to the soldiers the importance of protecting the sanctity of the ballots in the upcoming midterm polls.

“It is imperative to protect the sanctity of the ballot and ensure that electoral choices are made free from monetary influence. Vote buying and vote-selling have long undermined the democratic process,” he told the soldiers in Banguingui.

“Our mission is clear — we must ensure that the people of Banguingui can vote freely and safely. The integrity of the elections depends on our vigilance, professionalism, and commitment to peace and security. I have full confidence in your ability to carry out this duty with honor,” Delos Santos further emphasized.

The 1102nd brigade commander also reminded the troops of their non-partisan role in the election and their duty to remain neutral while ensuring a secure environment for voters.

Additionally, he told the soldiers, “We are here to serve the Filipino people, not any political party or candidate. Our role is to protect the electoral process and ensure that every voter can cast their ballot without intimidation or fear. Stay alert, stay disciplined, and always act with integrity.”

As this developed, Delos Santos also paid a courtesy visit to Banguingui Mayor Nike Sahidula and Admin Officer Wahid Sahidula, where they discussed security measures and coordination efforts for the upcoming electoral process.

Accompanying Brig. Gen. Delos Santos were key military officials, including Deputy Brigade Commander Col. Alex Gagula, 101st Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Mike Demafelix, JTF Orion Operations Officer Lt. Col. Erwin Cariño, 1102nd Brigade Operations Officer Cpt. Kesly Maligro, and 1102nd Brigade Logistics Officer Lt. Hazel Calina. Banguingui Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Officer Hji. Berhana Yasin and other brigade and battalion staff also joined the mission.

The 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade remains steadfast in its mission to uphold a peaceful, orderly, and secure election in Sulu, ensuring that residents can exercise their right to vote without fear or intimidation.