Isabela City, Basilan — May 2, 2025 — Sixty-one elite Special Forces personnel arrived early Friday morning at the Isabela City Port as part of intensified security efforts ahead of the national and local elections. The deployment is part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) strategy to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process in Basilan Province.
The newly arrived troops were received by Brigadier General Alvin V. Luzon, Commander of the 101st Infantry Brigade and Joint Task Group Basilan. He expressed his gratitude to Brigadier General Rosendo C. Abad Jr., Commander of the Special Forces Regiment (Airborne), for initiating the augmentation.
“These reinforcements are crucial in protecting our democratic process,” BGen. Luzon said. “The people of Basilan deserve an election that is credible; the people of Basilan deserve an election they can be proud of.”
The Special Forces operatives will be deployed across the province to strengthen the military’s presence in polling areas and safeguard election-related materials and facilities. Their arrival complements existing security forces already stationed in the region.
Military officials noted that more troops are expected in the coming days to bolster the ongoing security operations. The AFP also reaffirmed its commitment to support the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) in ensuring orderly, honest, and safe elections, particularly in historically vulnerable areas like Basilan.
Authorities are calling on the public to remain vigilant and cooperative during the election period. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities as part of the collective effort to protect the integrity of the electoral process.
The national and local elections are set to take place later this month.
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