Camp Sang-an, Zamboanga del Sur — The Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao), in close coordination with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and local government units, successfully secured the peaceful and orderly conduct of the 2025 National and Local Elections (NLE) across its area of responsibility on May 12.
Task Force officials reported that all Automated Counting Machines (ACMs) were delivered to polling precincts without incident, with voting beginning and ending on schedule. No election failures were reported, and the transmission of results proceeded smoothly, reflecting the mission’s goal of ensuring free, fair, and safe elections.
JTF ZAMPELAN’s operational coverage included the provinces of Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Misamis Occidental, parts of Misamis Oriental, Lanao del Norte, and Lanao del Sur. To bolster security, two battalions were deployed to Lanao del Sur, supported by units from the 10th, 2nd, and 7th Infantry Divisions. Air assets, artillery, armored vehicles, and troop carriers were strategically positioned to guarantee a rapid response capability and uninterrupted election proceedings.
Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of JTF ZAMPELAN and the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, emphasized the vital role of the security forces in upholding democratic values.
“This is not merely about manning polling precincts. This is about protecting the very integrity of the democratic process — a process that embodies the will of the Filipino people,” said Barroquillo during the Send-Off Ceremony for the Provisional Battalion held on April 21.
He also praised the professionalism and discipline of the personnel involved, attributing the success of the elections to effective inter-agency coordination and proactive planning.
“The success of the 2025 elections across ZAMPELAN is a testament to the strength of inter-agency coordination, proactive planning, and the unwavering commitment of our troops. Our citizens were able to exercise their democratic rights in a secure and peaceful environment,” he said.
Barroquillo reminded troops of their responsibility beyond the battlefield, calling them “ambassadors of discipline and the rule of law.” He issued a firm reminder: “Remain vigilant. Remain professional. Any form of misconduct, abuse of power, or lapse in discipline will not be tolerated.”
With its role in the elections concluded, JTF ZAMPELAN reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to safeguarding peace and democratic order in Western Mindanao, ensuring that the voice of the people is respected and upheld.