No threats detected yet for barangay, SK polls: AFP

“We have not monitored any current threat to the election or the preparations to it, but continuous security measures are being undertaken to thwart any possible actions from usual peace spoilers, armed groups and terrorist elements that might take advantage of the situation,” AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Bienvenido Datuin said in a text message Monday. (PNA photo)

MANILA — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has yet to detect any security threat in connection with the conduct of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on May 14.

“We have not monitored any current threat to the election or the preparations to it, but continuous security measures are being undertaken to thwart any possible actions from usual peace spoilers, armed groups and terrorist elements that might take advantage of the situation,” AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Bienvenido Datuin said in a text message Monday.

However, he said the AFP, in support of the Philippine National Police (PNP), will conduct appropriate measures to secure the upcoming polls.

“Joint AFP-PNP troops will be deployed to man checkpoints in different areas to provide assistance to civilians, deter and prevent any move of interest groups that might be inimical to good order; and protect the general populace,” he added.

Datuin earlier said AFP personnel can be deputized to set up checkpoints and monitor cities and municipalities to curb security threats and election-related violence.

The military is also on alert against communist rebels who will take advantage of the village polls to sow terror and commit other atrocities.

“Particular concern is the usual extortion and unlawful intervention of the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front) in elections in the form of permit to campaign fees, permit to win fees and harrassment of candidates,” Datuin said.

He added that the AFP is ready to respond and take necessary measures to safeguard the people and the election process.

During the May 2016 national elections, the AFP launched its National Election Monitoring Center (NEMC) which utilized information-related capabilities to monitor the preparations for, and the actual conduct of elections and the canvassing process.

It also monitored election-related violence especially in identified election watch areas and provided necessary data for decision-making and execution of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and its deputized agencies.

Consolidated efforts of the AFP to secure the elections were coursed through its Unified Commands and the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region.

Operations related to the security of the election were also done in coordination with the Joint Security Coordination Centers at the regional, provincial, and independent city levels. On Saturday, the Comelec started accepting certificates of candidacy of persons vying for elective barangay posts.