THE Philippine National Police (PNP) said it has yet to receive any serious security threats against the national and local elections to be held on May 9, 2022.
However, PNP officer-in-charge General Vicente Danao, Jr. said this does not mean that the police should be complacent so the whole police force will still be vigilant in its preparations ahead of the elections.
“So far, wala tayong serious threat. But we cannot be complacent sa ating monitoring lalo na sa aspeto ng security preparations natin,” Danao said.
Danao also emphasized that it will throw the full force of the law against anyone who will attempt the sabotage the elections.
“The whole PNP is ready to secure the electoral process for the national and local elections,” he stressed.
About more than 41,000 police personnel are slated to be deployed in checkpoints in the entire country.
The PNP also reminded the public of activities that are forbidden on the day of the elections on May 9 in accordance with the resolution approved by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
Among these, Danao said, is the liquor ban which takes effect tomorrow until May 9, 2022.
“Anyone found violating any of the provisions may face the penalty of imprisonment of not less than one year but not more than six years without probation,” Danao added.
Danao also advised establishments not to put on display alcoholic beverages so as not to tempt the public from buying them.
He likewise reminded that campaign activities such as the distribution of campaign paraphernalia is strictly not allowed starting Sunday, May 8, or until voting has finished inside voting centers.
“Anyone who breaks this rule will face an election offense,” Danao warned.
“Further, PNP personnel will not be allowed to get inside the polling places on election day except in cases of emergency when the electoral board will seek their assistance,” Danao added.