As the country prepares for the upcoming midterm elections, a top Army official has reminded military personnel to remain nonpartisan and stay focused on their duties.
Major General Yegor Rey Barroquillo Jr., commander of the Army’s 1st Infantry Division, made the call during his recent visits to military units stationed in Iligan and Marawi cities. He emphasized that soldiers must avoid any political involvement and instead concentrate on helping the Commission on Elections (Comelec) maintain peace and security during the polls set for May 12.
Barroquillo said part of the military’s role is to help curb the spread of loose firearms and to closely monitor reports of private armed groups operating in the area. His recent rounds included visits to the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade in Iligan and the 103rd Infantry Brigade in Marawi.
In coordination with the Army, local police are also intensifying efforts to prevent the movement of illegal firearms. Lanao del Norte police director Colonel Roy Magsalay said they have strengthened checkpoint operations along major routes to intercept unauthorized weapons and ensure public safety ahead of election day.
