CentCom chief explains army role in polls

CEBU, Philippines - The Commander of the Central Command visited for himself the different headquarters under his jurisdiction in Central Visayas to reiterate to his men their role in the May elections especially their being non-partisan.

Major Gen. Ralph Villanueva also directed the respective commanders under him to conduct a widespread information drive on the orders and policies of the Armed Forces of the Philippines when it comes to their role during elections.

“Ang rason niini mao ang pagsiguro nga malayo ang AFP sa mga partisan politics ug nakabutang usab sa 1987 Constitution nga wala’y miyembro sa kasundaluhan nga mag-apil-apil sa bisan unsang kalihukang political gawas ra g’yud ang pagbotar,” Villanueva said.

Villanueva visited the 20th Infantry Battalion in Tinambacan District, Calbayog City, Western Samar; and the headquarters of the 803rd Infantry Brigade in Camp Sumuroy, Catarman, Northern Samar respectively last Monday and Tuesday.

He also plans to visit more military camps in the provinces of Negros, Bohol, Siquijor and Panay.

The CentCom commander reminded that according to the Commission on Elections’ directive on the military’s role under the gun ban resolution they can be detailed as security details to some politicians but they should still remain professional and non-partisan.

In a joint letter directive signed by the AFP, the Philippine National Police, and the Comelec, the AFP is mandated to secure a peaceful and scam-free election this May.

The directive states that that the soldiers and the police will guard poll precincts, arrest gun ban violators, provide security detail to candidates and conduct extensive checkpoints. It was also clarified that politicians are not allowed to campaign inside military camps under Section 201 of the Omnibus Election Code, otherwise, the camp’s commander will have to decide on the matter. — Niña G. Sumacot/BRP   (FREEMAN NEWS)