PNP to go after vote buyers – Marbil

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil yesterday ordered PNP personnel to intensify efforts to ensure the conduct of safe, peaceful and orderly midterm elections on May 12.

In line with President Marcos’ directive, Marbil reminded police personnel of their critical role in safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and protecting the rights of voters.

“We will intensify checkpoints, chokepoints and patrol operations to prevent any disruptions during the elections,” Marbil said. “Our job is to preserve the sanctity of the elections. We will not allow anything to compromise that.”

Marbil reaffirmed the PNP’s support for the Commission on Elections (Comelec)’s campaign against vote buying.

He urged the public to report incidents of vote buying to authorities.

“If you witness or suspect any form of vote buying or vote selling, report it immediately to the nearest police station. We must all work together to protect the integrity of the elections,” he said.

Marbil also reminded candidates for national and local positions to strictly adhere to Comelec regulations to ensure fair and orderly elections.

The PNP said it remains committed to upholding the “true will of the people and preventing any unlawful interference or manipulation during the elections.”