First day of campaign generally peaceful, says PNP

February 13, 2019

The first day of the campaign period for the 2019 midterm elections is generally peaceful, according to Senior Superintendent Bernard Banac, spokesman of the Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson.

In a radio interview on Wednesday, Banac said only minimal crimes were reported.

“It is very peaceful. When the campaign period began, we reported very minimal crimes and hopefully this will continue because we all know that we Filipinos don’t like a disorganized election,” he said.

Due to the experiences from previous elections, he said policemen are more alert and always on duty.

“All those who are on vacation where asked to go back since their presence is needed, maximum presence of everyone to prevent election-related violence,” said Banac.

According to the PNP spokesperson, they were able to arrest 1,153 persons during checkpoint operations and 757 guns were confiscated.

“We can see that these checkpoints are very effective,” he said.

He asked for cooperation of those who have registered firearms to not bring it outside since there is a gun ban nationwide.

For those who see people who violated the law, Banac told them to use social media to inform  authorities.

With regards to election watchlist areas, he said the 701 areas are only based on initial assessment.

“Every week, there is a validation if a place will be considered as areas of concern... it can also be removed (from the list),” said Banac.

While they are prepared for the elections, the PNP are still asking for the cooperation from the public in ensuring it is peaceful.

“This is a challenge for all of us. We need to help one another, everyone should have a participation. Let’s make our election orderly and peaceful. How we will conduct our election will be based on our actions,” said Banac. Ella Dionisio/DMS