CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division deployed its troops across various areas in Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions, as part of its intensified campaign to ensure safe, honest and peaceful 2025 National and Local Elections.

Army Major Joe Patrick Martinez, spokesperson of 4th ID, told the DAILY TRIBUNE that brigades and battalions under the 4ID are carrying out their mission to uphold peace, security and orderly elections, especially in areas identified as election hotspots.

“The deployment includes not only security forces, but also medical teams and civil-military operations units to assist in emergency response and voter support in polling areas,” Martinez said.

“Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., commander of the 4ID, emphasized that the Division’s entire force stands ready not only to defend national sovereignty, but also to safeguard the country’s democratic process. He noted that the active participation of Army personnel in election-related duties reflects the strong collaboration among the Philippine Army, Commission on Elections, Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Coast Guard,” Martinez said.

Anayron also underscored the importance of the Army’s presence in communities, stating it is meant to guarantee that every Filipino can vote freely, fearlessly and with dignity, Martinez said. 

“Our troops are deployed to ensure that today’s elections, Monday, May 12, proceed without violence, intimidation, or fraud. With various task forces activated and fully operational, we are committed to responding to any election-related concerns. Our interoperability with Comelec, PNP and other deputized law enforcement agencies remains solid throughout this critical time,” Martinez, quoting MGen. Anayron Jr., said.

In support of the mission to ensure peaceful and orderly elections, Diamond troopers exercised their right to vote prior to undertaking their election-related duties. This approach allows them to fully focus on securing polling areas and maintaining public safety.

Over at the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, the Comelec, in coordination with Task Force Marawi, has implemented temporary road closures near several designated voting centers to ensure the security and safety of voters. 

Lt/Col. Sherlyn Consulta, commanding officer of the 500th Combat Engineer Battalion, representing Task Force Marawi, emphasized that the road closures are implemented only in front of the voting centers and do not cover the entire length of the streets.

She noted that Marawi City has been identified as an area under “red” category and the closures are among the precautionary measures put in place to ensure the security and safety of voters.

Consulta also pointed out the potential risk of vehicles being used to smuggle firearms into voting areas, underscoring the importance of controlled access. Despite the closures, provisions have been made to allow emergency responders.