PRO-7 reports zero poll-related violence in recent elections

CEBU, Philippines — The Police Regional Office-7 is one of only two regional police offices in the country to report zero election-related violent incidents during the recently concluded national and local elections.

This milestone is credited to PRO-7’s proactive and comprehensive security strategy, which included intensified police visibility, early personnel deployment, strategically placed Commission on Elections (Comelec) checkpoints, and close coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Comelec, and local government units.

According to PRO-7, the peaceful conduct of the elections was largely due to sustained law enforcement operations targeting criminal syndicates, drug networks, and private armed groups.

The recent arrests of illegal firearms manufacturers and the dismantling of 13 gun-for-hire groups played a key role in reducing potential threats, the police office reported, contributing significantly to the safe and secure environment throughout Central Visayas.

“This is the result of focused planning, disciplined execution, and the unwavering support of our communities,” said PRO-7 Regional Director PBGEN Redrico A. Maranan in a statement.

Maranan emphasized that the region has proven peaceful elections are attainable when all sectors work together.

“Central Visayas has shown that peaceful elections are not just an aspiration—they are achievable when everyone unites toward a common goal,” he said.

During the election period, PRO-7 actively monitored identified areas of concern, engaged with local candidates and community stakeholders, and maintained round-the-clock surveillance through regional and provincial command centers.

As a result, Maranan noted, no major security incidents or acts of election-related violence were recorded in the region.

“This successful and violence-free electoral exercise stands as a benchmark for future national and local elections, highlighting the power of collaboration and effective security strategy,” Maranan added. — (FREEMAN)