Monday, March 26, 2007 4 Benguet towns under police watch
FOUR Benguet towns are under tight watch by the Provincial Police Office (PPO) for possible untoward incidents in this year's synchronized national and local elections.
Police Provincial Director Moro Virgilio Lazo said the municipalities of Mankayan, Bakun, Kibungan and Kapangan are under surveillance by the police due to the often reported sightings of members of the New People's Army (NPA) in the areas.
Lazo, however, said the four towns are not considered as special areas of concern. "There are no special areas of concern, we just want to monitor these towns because these are where the NPAs are often sighted," he said.
He added that the province has not recorded any hostilities associated with the upcoming local campaign and election period.
The Cordillera Police Regional Office (PRO) has intensified its efforts in ensuring peace and order in the region during the May 14 elections. It has formulated task forces to go after groups planning to create private armed groups for politicians.
Also, the PRO has encouraged candidates to report extortion activities that might be done by the rebel groups. (JC)
