Tanks deployed for BARMM polls

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will deploy Sabrah light tanks, ATMOS 155mm wheeled self-propelled artillery systems, additional troops and air assets to Lanao del Sur as part of security preparations for the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections on 14 September.

The deployment is part of the AFP’s routine election security measures, including the strategic positioning of troops and assets in areas requiring additional support.

The Sabrah tanks and ATMOS artillery systems will augment armored and fire support assets already prepositioned in Lanao, alongside 10 battalions currently deployed in the area. The 29th and 30th Infantry Battalions will serve as follow-on forces.

Black Hawk and T129 ATAK helicopters will also support the election security effort, providing mobility, surveillance and rapid response capabilities.

The AFP said the measures are intended to deter armed groups from resorting to violence, intimidation and other acts that could threaten voters and communities.

The 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division said the strengthened security posture is preventive and protective and should not cause alarm among residents. It added that the deployment aims to create a secure environment where registered voters can freely exercise their right to vote.

Meanwhile, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Thursday assured residents of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) that increased police presence and checkpoints are part of preparations for the 14 September polls.

Nartatez said the measures, carried out under the directives of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, are aimed at safeguarding communities and maintaining order.

He acknowledged that some residents have expressed concerns over the heightened security but said there was no reason for alarm.

“We all want to have peaceful and orderly elections in BARMM and for your PNP, there is an extra challenge: to get rid of the stereotype that elections always come with violence in this particular region and to prove that it is doable,” Nartatez said.