As elections draw nearer CV has 12 “potential” armed groups

CEBU, Philippines - There are at least 12 potential private armed groups of politicians in Central Visayas  according to Police Regional Office Director Marcelo Garbo, Jr.

The police official however refused to name these armed groups, which they are currently monitoring.

“As of now, wala pa’y na-record na private armed groups formation sa Central Visayas, but may 12 potential groups na binabantayan natin ngayon.  Our intelligence officers have started profiling these potential PAGs na mga tauhan ng political leaders,” Garbo said.

They will soon come up with the list of private armed groups as well as the list of areas considered as hot spots in Region 7.

As of now, they have identified areas in Northern Cebu, some areas in Bohol, and several parts in Negros Oriental as critical areas.

Garbo has held dialogues with some politicians who have requested to declare their respective municipalities under Comelec control.

Garbo said this matter will be discussed in their series of meetings as the election draws nearer.

Yesterday, Garbo presided over the first Regional Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Council (RJPSCC) meeting at the PRO 7 conference room with officials from the military group and the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

Garbo revealed that among the municipalities they are closely monitoring for possible private armed groups formation are in the northern part of Cebu.

Bogo City was in the limelight during the 2010 elections because of violence in the place.

The incident involved two rival politicians who reportedly had their respective armed goons with them.

Lawyer Veronico Petalcorin, Comelec assistant regional supervisor, said they ha ve to start preparing for the elections as the election fever is heating up.

“Init na g’yud. Nilapas na sa hilanat ang kainit so nangandam na ta ug nag-forecast na ‘ta sa mga posibleng mahitabo,” Petalcorin said.

He added they will hold a series of meeting with the police and the military and soon come up with the list of areas of concern in Central Visayas. — (FREEMAN)