Soldiers, cops boost poll safety

PALAYAN CITY, Nueva Ecija — With election season heating up, security forces in Nueva Ecija are mobilizing to ensure voters can head to the polls without fear. The Philippine Army and the Nueva Ecija Police Provincial Office (NEPPO) have teamed up to tighten security across the province ahead of the 2025 National and Local Elections.

In a send-off ceremony on Sunday, NEPPO welcomed 66 soldiers from the 70th Infantry Battalion, under the 703rd Infantry (Agila) Brigade, who are now set to bolster election security. Police Colonel Ferdinand D. Germino and Lieutenant Colonel Ryan Joseph S. Cayton led the turnover, underscoring the urgency of the mission.

The soldiers, organized into seven squads, will be deployed to strategic areas province-wide and will stay on high alert through Election Day, ready to respond to any potential threats or unrest.

Brigadier General Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV, commander of the 703rd Infantry Brigade, said the joint operation reflects the government’s strong resolve to protect voters and the electoral process.

“This partnership is about more than security — it’s about defending democracy,” Osias stressed. “Our soldiers and police officers are working side by side to make sure every Filipino can vote safely and confidently.”

The collaboration between NEPPO, the Army and other agencies is expected to set the tone for a secure and peaceful election, as authorities promise swift action against any attempts to disrupt the democratic process.