PNP chief to uphold PBBM’s vow of free, honest midterm polls

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said it is prepared to secure the 2025 midterm elections, vowing to protect voters, election officials, teachers and civil society groups.

PNP chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil stressed that the force will deploy its resources to ensure a safe and peaceful election, particularly in identified hotspot areas.

The announcement follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to ensure peaceful elections, especially in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), which has historically experienced election-related violence.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has identified 34 election hotspots nationwide, 27 of which are in BARMM.

In response, 6,327 checkpoints have been established nationwide as part of a gun ban implemented ahead of the May 2025 elections.

BARMM regional police chief Police Brigadier General Romeo J. Macapaz said police have intensified measures in the region, including strategic deployments, heightened visibility, additional checkpoints and enhanced intelligence monitoring, anticipating an increase in election-related violence.

Macapaz said police will work closely with the new BARMM government and other agencies to facilitate peaceful elections.

"We believe that with proper coordination and cooperation, we can gradually curb violence in the region," Macapaz said.

He added that police are working with the BARMM leadership and coordinating with the national government to ensure sufficient support for peace and development in the region.

Macapaz said the efforts underscore the PNP's commitment to ensuring an electoral process free from violence, intimidation and fraud, upholding the democratic rights of Filipinos.