CATARMAN, Northern Samar (PIA) – Once considered a hotspot during elections, specifically in the late ‘90s, the province of Northern Samar has made significant progress in conducting orderly and peaceful elections through intensified efforts of concerned authorities.
In an interview at the Philippine Information Agency’s Huruhimangraw sa Panginudto radio program, Provincial Election Supervisor Fidel Amacna of the Commission on Elections in Northern Samar said that the Comelec, along with the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Philippine Army, and other deputized agencies have joined forces to strengthen election security.
In the late ‘90s, the province was on the hotspot list and was Comelec area of concern, with incidents of failure of elections in remote barangays, prompting the conduct of special elections.
Determined to prevent similar disruptions, authorities have launched early security preparations in coordination with law enforcement agencies.
He shared that the Provincial Joint Security Control Center (PJSCC) recently convened to discuss key measures, including the firearms ban, security deployment, and checkpoint operations.
Officials also took a solidarity pledge, affirming their commitment to a safe, credible, and peaceful electoral process.
Brig. Gen. Efren Morados, 803rd Brigade commander, said that ensuring a peaceful election is not just an administrative task but a moral obligation of the Philippine Army.
“Our commitment is a testament to our shared responsibility in ensuring peaceful, credible, and fair elections. This is not just an administrative task but a moral obligation as defenders of peace and security,” Morados said.
In a show of unity, partner agencies signed a peace pact pledging to uphold the rule of law, protect voters’ rights, and combat misinformation and electoral violence.
“As guardians of peace and enforcers of the law, we reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding the electoral process,” Police Col. Sonnie Omengan, provincial director of the Northern Samar Police provincial Office.
Amacna also called on the public to cooperate with authorities to help ensure a successful and peaceful election on May 12, 2025.
The poll body has urged voters to participate actively, reminding them that their right to vote is essential to democracy. (AND/PIA Northern Samar)
