9ID reaffirms non-Partisan and neutral Stance in the BSKE 2023
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, PILI, Camarines Sur (PIA) -- The 9th Infantry “SPEAR” Division, Philippine Army, stands united with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) in their shared commitment to guarantee the smooth, fair, and tranquil conduct of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) 2023.
In the weeks leading to the BSKE elections on Monday, October 30, the SPEAR division mobilized more than 3,000 personnel to ensure the security of all precincts within the region. This deployment was closely coordinated with the COMELEC's Regional Control Center.
Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) Spokesperson MAJ Frank Roldan emphasized in a press statement that the 9ID has deployed 197 specialized liaison officers to Municipal Election Monitoring Action Centers. Their primary role is to promptly address any concerns that may emerge during the polling process.
“A contingent of 408 support personnel was also dispatched to ensure seamless logistical operations. Strategically, 9ID has also positioned 72 Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) equipped with 80 mobility assets in key areas to guarantee rapid responses to situations and enhance overall security and efficiency during the electoral process,” Roldan added.
Relative to this, Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) and 9th ID Commander MGEN Adonis Bajao have reaffirmed the Philippine Army's unwavering dedication to serving the community without bias and upholding complete neutrality. He stressed that they will protect the fundamental right of the people to exercise their freedom of choice.
“The troops (Spear troopers) will remain diplomatic, apolitical, non-partisan and we do not support anybody. Our role is just to vote based on our conscience and to maintain an honest, peaceful, and orderly election,” Bajao said.
Entrusted with spearheading this initiative is the 902nd Infantry "Fight and Serve" Brigade under the 9th Infantry Division (9ID).
Operational units under the Brigade's Operation Control (OPCON), including 9IB, 81IB, 83IB, and 49IB, are assigned to oversee areas encompassing Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, and segments of Albay.
902nd Infantry Brigade Commander, Brigadier General William P. Penafiel Jr., emphasized the significance of non-partisanship, stating, "As custodians of democracy, our unwavering commitment is to safeguard the electoral process. Our personnel have been instructed to maintain complete impartiality during this crucial period. Our allegiance is to the nation and its democratic principles."
MGen Bajao urged all eligible voters to exercise their rights. He reiterated his call for them to conscientiously choose the upcoming leaders who will serve as the government’s partners in nation-building and align their decisions with their conscience and values. (With reports from DPAO, PA- PIA 5/ Camarines Sur)