Parang, Maguindanao del Norte — April 28, 2025
With only two weeks remaining before the May 12 National and Local Elections, the Police Regional Office Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR) has reaffirmed its strong commitment to ensuring peaceful, honest, and orderly polls across the region.
PRO BAR Regional Director PBGEN Romeo J. Macapaz called on citizens, local officials, and law enforcement partners to work hand-in-hand in safeguarding the integrity of the democratic process.
“We stand ready to protect the sanctity of the ballot and the safety of every voter. Our men and women in uniform are deployed not only to maintain order but also to assure our communities that they can vote freely, without fear or intimidation,” said PBGEN Macapaz.
PRO BAR is currently on full alert status, with checkpoints, visibility patrols, and coordinated security measures intensified across the provinces of Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and the cities of Cotabato, Lamitan, and Marawi.
In line with the Commission on Elections’ (COMELEC) guidelines, the gun ban remains strictly enforced until June 11. The public is reminded that carrying firearms or deadly weapons, even with permits, is prohibited unless officially exempted by COMELEC.
PBGEN Macapaz emphasized the strong partnership between PRO BAR, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, COMELEC, and other stakeholders, especially in monitoring election areas of concern. He also urged citizens to report any incidents of vote-buying, intimidation, or suspicious activities through PRO BAR’s hotlines and social media platforms.
“Let us not allow fear, misinformation, or lawlessness to silence our people. We owe it to every Filipino — especially here in BARMM — to prove that peace and democracy can co-exist,” he said.
The Regional Director also called for unity among political parties and candidates, reminding them to uphold the rule of law and respect the electoral process.
As the election day nears, PRO BAR stands firm in its mission to serve as a pillar of peace and democracy in the Bangsamoro Region. Their efforts align with the vision of Philippine National Police Chief PGEN Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, whose leadership emphasizes the safety of citizens and the sanctity of the electoral process.
PRO BAR’s unwavering commitment aims to ensure that the May 12 elections become a true celebration of democratic values in the region.