In a decisive move to ensure peace and order in the upcoming 2025 National and Local Elections (NLE), the Philippine National Police (PNP) has officially activated the Special Task Force-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (STF-BARMM) on Monday. This initiative, launched under the leadership of PNP Chief, Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, aligns with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to safeguard the electoral process and uphold democracy.
The activation ceremony, led by PLTGEN Bernard M. Banac, Commander of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao, brought together key security officials and stakeholders, including Atty. Ray F. Sumalipao, Regional Election Director of COMELEC BARMM; PBGEN Romeo J. Macapaz, Regional Director of PRO-BARMM; COL Ruben G. Aquino, Acting Assistant Division Commander of the 6th Infantry Division, Philippine Army; and CDR Makaradat L. Uddin of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). Representatives from various security cluster partner agencies, the military, and the coast guard were also present to affirm their commitment to ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
The creation of STF-BARMM follows the recent Political Candidates Forum and Peace Covenant Signing hosted by the 6th Infantry Division at its headquarters in Awang, Cotabato City, on March 19, which was attended by PNP Chief Marbil. This activation marks another significant step in a series of peace initiatives across BARMM’s mainland and island provinces, underscoring the collective effort to prevent election-related violence and maintain stability in the region.
At the core of these initiatives is a strong commitment to securing free and fair elections through inter-agency collaboration. By fostering equality, accountability, empowerment, and unity, stakeholders are working to ensure that the people of BARMM can exercise their right to vote in an atmosphere of safety and transparency.
Chief PNP Marbil emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “With the strong support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., we are committed to upholding democracy by ensuring a safe and fair electoral process. The activation of STF-BARMM underscores our dedication to maintaining peace and security, allowing the people of BARMM to exercise their right to vote without fear or intimidation.”
With the full backing of national leadership and the strong cooperation of BARMM communities, STF-BARMM, together with the COMELEC, the AFP, and the PCG, is ready to fulfill its mandate of delivering a secure and orderly electoral exercise in May 2025.
(PNP-PIO)
