12 C. Luzon pols get cop bodyguards

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga – At least 12 politicians in Central Luzon were each given a police security escort due to supposed threats to their lives.

Chief Superintendent Ismael Rafanan, regional police director, said they granted the politicians’ request for police bodyguards after the intelligence and investigation division of Camp Olivas thoroughly assessed the supposed threats they have received.

Rafanan identified the 12 politicians as Mayors Luis Espino of Arayat, Lucas Arceo of Sto. Tomas, and Jerry Pelayo of Candaba, fourth district provincial board member Nestor Tolentino, former City of San Fernando vice mayor Ely Lagman, and Francisco Gaddi of Sta. Ana town, all of Pampanga; Mayor Harvy Tubera of Dinalungan, Aurora; Mayors Gregoria Manglimot of Ramos, Tito Razalan of Mayantoc, and Dionisio Manuel of La Paz, vice mayoral candidate Michael Manuel, and first district Rep. Pearl Pacada, all of Tarlac.

Meanwhile, Rafanan assured Central Luzon folk that the May 14 elections in the region would be honest and orderly.

Rafanan gave this assurance during a conference with officials of the Commission on Elections and the Armed Forces, and all provincial and city police directors in the region last Wednesday.