PNP to deploy more cops in election hotspots

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday said it has ramped up its preparations to secure the 2025 midterm polls, including the deployment of more cops in election hotspots.

In a statement, the PNP said its chief Police General Rommel Marbil has laid out a 100-day security plan that “prioritizes the deployment of personnel in election hotspots, the conduct of regular checkpoints, and intensified intelligence operations.”

“We are entering a critical period where vigilance and proactive policing are paramount. Our 100-day security plan is designed to ensure that every voting center is protected, every threat is addressed, and every citizen can cast their vote without fear,” Marbil said.

PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo said the deployment of additional security personnel in "election areas of concern" is part of their preparations.

Fajardo earlier said that a total of 403 areas have been included in the list of election areas of concern as of January 9.

Of the total number, 188 are under the yellow category.

Yellow areas have reported suspected election-related incidents in the past two polls, provided there was no participation of domestic terror groups. The areas should also be previously declared under the control of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and reported the possible presence of armed groups and intense political rivalries.

A total of 177 areas are under the orange category.

Orange areas should have the combination of two or more factors under the yellow category; and should have serious armed threats posed by terror and threat groups.

Meanwhile, 38 areas are under the red category.

Red areas meet the parameters for yellow and have serious threats posed by terror and threat groups. Security forces will focus on monitoring these areas with the possibility for violence and intense political fights among local candidates.

The PNP’s 100-day security plan also covers heightened police visibility, strategic personnel deployment, and strengthened coordination with other law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

According to the PNP, the police organization will also focus on dismantling private armed groups, pursuing wanted persons, and intensifying operations against loose firearms.

Marbil encouraged the public to report to authorities any suspicious activities or election-related violations through the PNP’s hotlines and social media channels.  

The election period started on January 12.

The campaign period for senatorial candidates and party-list groups is set from February 11 to May 10, 2025. Meanwhile, the campaign period for candidates for House of Representatives and parliamentary, provincial, city and municipal elections will be from March 28 to May 10.

Election Day is on May 12, but overseas voters may cast their votes from April 13 to May 12, while local absentee voters may cast their votes from April 28 to 30. —KG, GMA Integrated News

For more Eleksyon 2025 related content and updates, visit GMA News Online's Eleksyon 2025 microsite.