AGLIPAY, Quirino (PIA) - - The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) here thanked the Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Education (DepEd) and Armed Forces of Philippines (AFP) for their commitment in upholding the integrity for electoral system.

In the multi-agency send-off ceremony, Provincial Election Supervisor, Atty Erwin M. Valeroso thanked the Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Education (DepEd) and Armed Forces of Philippines (AFP) saying that their services are vital in ensuring a fair, honest, peaceful and transparent Barangay and SK elections (BSKE).

“This election, you will be entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding the democratic rights of voters and your action will play a vital role in shaping the future of our nation. I have full confidence in your professionalism, dedication, and sense of duty, Atty. Valeroso said.

The provincial election supervisor likewise reminded the said NGAs that their role is not just a duty, but it is a service to democracy and their commitment to impartiality will be the cornerstone of a successful election.

“Please prioritize safety, fairness, and respect for all voters. You should act with the highest standard of integrity, let us help one another and communicate with each other to ensure a smooth and efficient electoral process,” Valeroso stressed.

Meanwhile, PLTCOL Danilo P Abalos, Chief of Provincial Operations and Management Unit said the turnover of forces and resources signifies the preparedness and readiness of every concerned agency for the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) on October 30, 2023.

DepEd SDO Quirino through Division Information Officer Arnold Saballa who represented Schools Division Superintendent Madelyn Macalling assured that the 135 schools with a total of 405 that will serve as voting centers are now ready including the DESO support staff.

“As we turnover our resources and forces, our plea to everyone to please take good care of all these resources and manpower as we commit for a peaceful and credible election.,” Saballa said.

Saballa also assured they will call the attention of those teachers and non-teaching staff who are engaging in partisan political activities such as endorsing candidates and remind them that government officials and employees are prohibited from electioneering.

“If you need our help, please feel free to contact us through me Public Assistance Coordinator of DepEd and at the same time Division Information Officer,” Saballa said.

On the part of the AFP, 1LT Earl John Asuncion turned over 41 members of the Bravo Company 86IB, 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army with their individual and unit resources to the COMELEC.

“On behalf of our Battalion Commander LTC Joseph C Flores, we would like to give you our outmost dedication and commitment for this upcoming BSKE 2023 on October 30 and we look forward to the conduct of peaceful elections,” Asuncion said.

Moreover, PCOL Augosto P Bayubay, provincial director of the Quirino Police Provincial Office turned over to the COMELEC provincial office the 463 QPPO personnel to include the [natural?] support units with their individual resources to be deployed provincewide ready for October 30, 2023 BSKE.

PCOL Bayubay said the the multi-agency sendoff ceremony is an opportunity to reaffirm dedication to upholding the principle of democracy and the rule of law.

“As public servants, our primary duty is to serve the people and facilitate a transparent and credible election, let us remain neutral and impartial in our actions, ensuring that we provide the equal opportunities and leveled playing fields for all candidates,” PCOL Bayubay said. (TCB/PIA Quirino)