Talisay to deploy cops at Comelec office during filing

CEBU, Philippines – To step up security during the filing of certificates of candidacy, the Talisay City police will deploy uniformed men at the office of the Commission on Elections starting tomorrow.

Superintendent Germano Mallari, chief of Talisay City Police Station, said this is to prevent any possible commotion or security threat while candidates of next year's polls submit their respective COCs.

While he said he believes that political candidates will conduct themselves with professionalism, he is not discounting the possibility of any untoward incident.

"Usahay kani mang gung mga supporters makapaulbo sa tension kay mao'y init kaayo sa ilang gilabanan ba (Sometimes, it’s the political candidates’ supporters who spark the tension because of their ardent support)," Mallari said.

He added that he already instructed his men to ensure peace and order within the Comelec starting October 12 until 16 which is the duration set by the election office for candidates to file their candidacies.

This as he reminded his subordinates to remain neutral and not take sides.

Earlier, Senior Supt. Noel Gillamac, director of Cebu Provincial Police Office, also urged his men to maintain neutrality at all times.

Gillamac warned those who will favor certain candidates to face consequences.

Meanwhile, after the last day of filing of COCs, Talisay policemen assigned in the Comelec will move to Gaisano Fiesta Mall in Barangay Tabunok to secure the off-site registration which will run from October 17 to 31. —  Gabriel C. Bonjoc of BANAT News