DAVAO ORIENTAL – The security measures in the province of Davao Oriental are now set in place as security forces beef up their preparations for upcoming local and national elections.

On Thursday, April 28, during the activation of the Provincial Joint Security Control Center (PJSCC) held in the City of Mati, the Commission on Elections (Comelec), Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) presented their respective security plans.

Among the security measures mentioned were the deployment of sufficient manpower, setting up road security, presence of security personnel near voting centers, setting up of Comelec checkpoints, and ensuring the implementation of the election gun ban, among others.

Also highlighted during the meeting is the close coordination of partner agencies and stakeholders to ensure the schools’ preparedness as voting centers and the application of the New Normal voting set by the Department of Health (DOH).

Meanwhile, the Davao Oriental Electric Cooperative, Inc. (DORECO) also assured the PJSCC to prevent power interruptions, noting that it has also developed a contingency plan to restore power in the event of uncontrolled power interruptions.

Regional Election Director IV Atty. Michael C. Abas, said he is confident that the province of Davao Oriental is now ready and fully prepared for the May 2022 elections, given the full participation of all members of the security sector.

He added that the successful implementation of the election will be fully attained through everybody’s participation.

Spearheading the PJSCC are Provincial Election Supervisor III Atty. Krisna Samantha T. Caballero, Davao Oriental Police Provincial Office (DOPPO) Provincial Director Police Colonel Efren E. Orlina, and 701st Brigade, Philippine Army Commander Brigadier General Oliver C. Maquiling. By Mark Alvite