CONCEPCION GRANDE, Naga City (PIA)-- Camarines Sur Police Provincial Office (CSPPO) Provincial Director PCol Julius Caesar Domingo emphasized the need for a well-organized, safe, and fair Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) in 2023. The said local political exercise is slated for October 30.

During the flag-raising ceremony and the Nationwide Multi-Sectoral Peace Assembly for the upcoming BSKE 2023 held October 16 at the CSPPO parade grounds, Domingo extended invitations to numerous agencies, collaborators, and other stakeholders to participate in a commitment signing aimed at guaranteeing the success of this year's local elections.

“Ang purpose natin ay mapakita natin sa ating mga kababayan na lahat na stakeholders natin, lalo na ang Armed Forces and the PNP, of course under the leadership of Comelec, ay nagkakaisa. Kasama din natin dyan ang [PPCRV], of course mga different religious organizations, naki-join din po sila, para ma-ensure natin na magiging mapayapa at maayos, and fair and darating na election,” Domingo said in an interview with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Camarines Sur.

Domingo said they have deployed police personnel in various polling locations in Camarines Sur. They are also working in coordination with other law enforcement agencies like the Philippine Army, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the Comelec to ensure swift responses to any unforeseen incidents during the election.

Before introducing the guest of honor, PD Domingo led the awarding of commendations to the team leader and members of the Balatan Municipal Police Station (MPS) for their effective execution of a search warrant. This operation resulted in the apprehension of an individual known as Alyas Diablo and the seizure of methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) and a .45 caliber firearm.

Recipients of the said commendation include PCMS Bryan Lomeda Pentecostes, PSSg Larryzil Amoroso Badilla, PCpl Danilo Iriola Amparo, Jr., and PCpl Michael Jay Romaraog Elevado.

Comelec enjoins every voter to foster fair election

Comelec Camarines Sur Provincial Election Supervisor Noriel Badiola who was invited as the guest of honor and speaker during the Nationwide Multi-Sectoral Peace Assembly for the upcoming BSKE 2023, urged each voter to make thoughtful choices as they elect individuals for barangay and SK positions.

He also likened the electoral process to a competitive event or contest.

“Elections are like contest. Like other competitions, let us not be complacent. Let us be vigilant. In fact, let us think that we are in a war.  A war of ideas, of honor.  Walang ibang papel ang Comelec kundi ipatupad ang maayos na election sa darating na Oct.30. Sa nakikita kong pagkakaisa natin ngayon, I really do believe that there is no reason for us not to have a peaceful, orderly, safe and secure Barangay and SK elections 2023,” Badiola expounded.

One of the highlights of the event is the Commitment Signing undertaken by heads of various government agencies such as the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Camarines Sur, COMELEC, PPCRV, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Education (DepEd), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and Faith-based group, among others.

Heads and representatives who signed the commitment pledged to enhance multi-sectoral partnerships to safeguard peace and uphold democracy throughout the BSKE elections. Embedded within the commitment statement is a resolute condemnation of any unlawful activities and actions that may compromise the integrity of the BSKE.

Badiola stressed the pivotal role of barangays, the smallest political unit which nonetheless serve as a fundamental pillar of leadership.  He enjoined every voter to participate in the electoral process and choose candidates dedicated to upholding integrity, honesty, and committed public service. 

Following the signing of the commitment, all attendees released doves as a symbol of their hopes for a tranquil election.  (PIA 5)