POLICE Regional Office 13 (PRO 13) has formally sent off 887 police personnel to reinforce security and election operations for the upcoming 1st BARMM Parliamentary Elections during a ceremony held at Camp Rafael C. Rodriguez in Butuan City on Monday, September 7.
The augmentation force is composed of 490 security personnel, 375 Special Electoral Board (SEB) members, and 22 drivers.
They will be deployed to key strategic locations across Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and the Special Geographic Area (SGA).
Atty. Geraldine C. Samson, Assistant Regional Election Director of COMELEC Caraga, attended the send-off activity as the guest of honor and speaker.
To ensure operational readiness, PRO 13 Regional Director PBGen Rolindo M. Suguilon confirmed that all 375 police officers serving as SEB members underwent specialized training prior to deployment.
The training prepared officers to carry out electoral and security duties in compliance with established protocols, ensuring a safe, peaceful, and orderly voting process.
The entire PRO 13 contingent will be led by Police Colonel Michael B. Lozada, Force Commander of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 13 (RMFB 13).
Under his command, the personnel are tasked with maintaining peace and order, securing polling centers, and responding to potential security threats throughout the election period.
Speaking to the departing troops, PBGen Suguilon emphasized the significance of their mission in upholding democratic processes in the region, offering prayers for their safety and guidance as they carry out their duties in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.
