WITH the May 2025 elections fast approaching, attention is once again turning to the matter of election security. In Iloilo, local authorities have already made strides in preparing for potential threats, with the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) and the Provincial Joint Security Control Center (PJSCC) coordinating efforts to secure polling areas. However, as recent reports indicate, the existence of criminal gangs and the lingering presence of communist terrorist groups remain real challenges. While current measures are commendable, there is always room for improvement. The question we must now ask is: What more can be done to ensure that Iloilo’s elections are safe, peaceful, and free from intimidation?
One of the most pressing concerns is the potential for criminal elements to be used for political purposes. The IPPO’s admission that criminal gangs with firearms are being monitored highlights the persistent threat of violence. While these gangs’ primary focus may not be election-related activities, their mere existence — and access to weapons — poses a significant risk. This is where proactive law enforcement becomes crucial. Authorities should not only track the movements of these groups but also dismantle their operations well before the election period. Intensified intelligence efforts, coupled with the deployment of specialized police units in hotspot areas, are key strategies that could deter potential violence.
At the heart of ensuring a peaceful election is the thorough classification of Election Watchlist Areas (EWAS), which Comelec has categorized as green, yellow, orange, or red based on the level of threat. This system provides a clear framework for addressing security concerns, but it must be implemented with precision. Local law enforcement and Comelec should regularly review and update these classifications, particularly as new information emerges. Areas currently classified as low-risk should not be ignored; instead, a continuous assessment should be made to ensure that no emerging threats are overlooked.
Also, Iloilo’s police forces must not work in isolation. Collaboration between the PNP, the AFP, the Philippine Coast Guard, and Comelec is essential for a coordinated response. The PJSCC plays an important role in this regard, but it must be more than just a formality. Joint security drills, communication exercises, and scenario planning should be conducted regularly in the lead-up to the elections to ensure that all agencies can respond quickly and effectively to any potential incident. Law enforcement visibility, particularly in known hotspots, should also be increased. Road checkpoints and mobile patrols in key areas could serve as deterrents to those who might seek to disrupt the peace.
Beyond law enforcement, however, lies another crucial component: community involvement. The citizens of Iloilo must be encouraged to take an active role in ensuring the safety of their communities during election season. Public awareness campaigns on how to report suspicious activity and the importance of a violence-free election can foster a sense of shared responsibility. After all, election security is not just the job of the police — it’s everyone’s business.
Furthermore, having a rapid response team ready to deploy at the first sign of trouble would ensure that any issues are addressed swiftly before they escalate.
Ensuring that voters feel safe when casting their ballots is paramount to the integrity of the elections. This means making security measures visible enough to reassure the public without creating an atmosphere of fear or intimidation.
