Political rivalries on PNP radar

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar has ordered police commanders to start mapping out security plans as intense political rivalry is expected to heat up at the local level.

Eleazar said that nearly all election-related violence in previous elections stemmed from political rivalries among candidates vying for local posts, including clashes among their supporters.

He said they are also monitoring candidates who are likely to resort to violence in their respective areas.

“I also ordered our Intelligence Group to start the monitoring and background check on all the candidates who have the history, the potential and the means to sow violence,” he said.

As part of efforts to ensure honest, peaceful and orderly elections next year, the PNP intensified its campaign against loose firearms and private armed groups.

Eleazar assured the public that the PNP would do everything in its power to protect the democratic process.

On the filing of certificates of candidacy and of nomination and acceptance, Eleazar said he is satisfied with the election security measures laid out in the past six days.

He reiterated his call to political aspirants to discourage their supporters from accompanying them or gathering outside the offices of the Commission on Elections and other venues to avoid super spreaders, which could lead to a surge in COVID cases.