Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Tuesday committed to implementing additional security measures in more than 100 areas identified by the Commission on Elections as areas of concern for the upcoming parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

“Ensuring the peaceful elections in BARMM is a continuing process. Security measures are in place, but regular monitoring and real-time adjustments are being done based on the situation on the ground,” Nartatez said.

“The goal has always been to provide the safest environment for all our kababayan in the area to freely choose their next leaders, and eventually prove that BARMM is way different now compared to what it was known for in the past, especially during elections,” he added.

The Comelec recently identified 108 areas of concern for the BARMM parliamentary elections scheduled for 14 September. The classification covers areas facing varying levels of security risks that could affect the conduct of the polls.

Lanao del Sur has the highest number of red zones, with 21, followed by Maguindanao del Sur with 11 orange zones. Maguindanao del Norte and Basilan have areas classified from low to high risk, while Tawi-Tawi remains relatively secure and stable.

Comelec classifies red zones as areas marked by severe risks and previous violent incidents that may warrant increased election oversight, while orange zones face serious armed security challenges.

Yellow zones have a documented history of election-related disturbances, while green zones are considered secure localities with no identified security threats.

Nartatez said the PNP would also strengthen coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines as part of its security preparations.