THE entire police force of Pilar, Abra was ordered relieved by Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Dionardo Carlos upon orders from the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
The order came upon the recommendation of Comelec Chairman Saidamen Pangarungan after placing Pilar, Abra under Comelec control.
According to PGen. Carlos, he will meet with Cordillera regional director Police Brigadier General Ronald Lee regarding the change in personnel.
Meanwhile, Pangarungan explained the relief of the entire Pilar, Abra police force was due to reports he received that the local police was biased.
Aside from this, private armed groups are allegedly present in the area.
Pangarungan added that he was not supposed to place Pilar, Abra under Comelec control but he changed his mind so he resorted to use his emergency powers.