Don’t vote for NPA-backed bets, CL folk told

SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – While reminding his men not to be partisan in today’s barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan polls, Pampanga police director Senior Superintendent Keith Singian nevertheless urged the public not to vote for candidates supported by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.

“We are looking into possible harassment, coercion and intimidation (by the communist rebels) to destabilize the outcome of the elections. I am calling on all citizens never to support these barangay candidates being backed by communist terrorists,” he said.

Singian said he has ordered his men to maximize their visibility in today’s elections through “checkpoints and chokepoints in strategic areas to neutralize partisan armed groups and prevent them from carrying out their nefarious activities.” 

He also instructed his field commanders to coordinate closely with the Philippine Army and the Philippine Air Force in insurgency-affected areas “to synchronize their combat patrols and operations to address any problems” which the communist rebels may pose. 

Despite being on full alert today, policemen have been told to also cast their votes. Cops on duty were reminded to strictly enforce the liquor ban, gun ban and prohibition on all forms of gaming and gambling for the duration of the polls.

“Do away with partisan politics. Remain apolitical and focused on your election duties and not on any political figure or intrigue,” Singian told his men.

“I will not hesitate to file appropriate charges against any erring personnel,” he added.

Singian also reminded his men to ensure the safety and security of the voters, poll workers and Commission on Election officials “from the start of the elections until the counting of votes and canvassing of election returns.”