THE Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO) has assured the public that the city remains peaceful and free from security threats ahead of the May 2025 elections, even as the Commission on Elections (Comelec) places it under close monitoring due to heightened political tensions.
MCPO spokesperson Mery Villaro confirmed on Monday, Feb. 10, that Mandaue City is classified as a “green” area, indicating that there are no reported threats or incidents involving candidates.
Despite this, authorities continue to monitor the political climate and ensure security in the city.
“Our personnel remain vigilant, and we are closely monitoring the status of all candidates. Nevertheless, we are fully prepared for any deployment orders from the Comelec,” Villaro said in Cebuano.
To maintain peace and order, police checkpoints have been established along critical roads, with Comelec-mandated inspections being conducted twice a day.
Authorities are also working closely with local government officials and the election commission to address any potential security concerns as the campaign period intensifies.
While Mandaue remains relatively calm, it has been included in Comelec’s list of areas under heightened monitoring due to increasing political rivalry. The city joins Cebu City, Cebu’s 4th District, and the 2nd District—where Vice Governor Hilario Davide III is challenging incumbent Representative Edsel Galeos—as areas of interest for election authorities.
Mandaue City Mayor Glenn Bercede in a previous interview expressed support for Comelec’s heightened scrutiny, stating that ensuring public safety should be the priority.
Bercede emphasized the importance of a fair and peaceful electoral process, reassuring residents that the city government is working with law enforcement agencies to maintain stability.
Comelec 7 Director Francisco Pobe confirmed that Mandaue is among the areas being closely observed due to political tensions.
However, he clarified that no areas in the Visayas, including Mandaue, have been classified as “areas of concern,” as there have been no reports of election-related violence.
Pobe said Comelec’s monitoring efforts are meant to safeguard voters’ rights and prevent intimidation.
“It’s not because there are political power struggles that we are monitoring these areas. We are doing so to ensure that the people will be able to freely participate in the elections without fear of threats or intimidation,” Pobe said.
Despite the generally peaceful situation in Central Visayas, Pobe emphasized the need for vigilance as the election period begins. He urged law enforcement agencies to remain proactive in preventing any potential disruptions./ CAV