BACOLOD City Mayor Evelio Leonardia said on Monday, January 14, his two police escorts have reported back to the Police Regional Office- Western Visayas as the election period started on Sunday, January 13.
Leonardia said the Philippine National Police (PNP) recalled all security details of political candidates in the country ahead of the midterm polls in May, but they are still entitled to process or request police escorts or private security.
He said they are processing his request to have private security at the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
“We are entitled to some security and we are now processing it,” he said.
The PNP recalled all security details of political candidates in the country based on the Comelec Resolution 10429 and 10446 which imposed a nationwide gun ban and prohibition of police details.
Leonardia also reminded the public to observe the gun ban to avoid charges and penalties.
“Election period means no carrying of firearms so let’s follow the law, especially the firearms holders, to avoid charges,” Leonardia said.
Meanwhile, Leonardia said he failed to join the signing of the peace covenant on Sunday because he was doing his religious vow, which he had been practicing for more than 40 years already.
When he returned, he inquired with the poll body where to sign the peace covenant, but the Comelec said he already signed the integrity pledge when he filed his certificate of candidacy.
“But for the sake of formality and if that is necessary, I’m still willing to sign it again because it’s for peaceful and honest elections and I’m willing to sign it over and over again,” Leonardia said.
On Sunday, local and national candidates for the May 13 elections signed the peace covenant for peaceful and honest elections. (MAP)