VISCOM-AFP deploys 7,700 personnel for May 12 polls in Visayas

CAMP LAPULAPU, Cebu City—The Visayas Command (VISCOM)-Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) mobilized 7,700 AFP personnel to reinforce security in support of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) measures for the May 12 national and local polls in the Visayas region.

"This deployment reinforces our commitment to protect the sanctity of the electoral process. As a professional and non-partisan organization, we stand vigilant in ensuring that every Filipino can exercise their right to vote freely, without fear or intimidation,” Lieutenant General Fernando Reyeg PA, Commander of VISCOM said. 

Reyeg said, more than 4,000 personnel under Joint Task Force (JTF) Spear were deployed across Region 6, the Negros Island Region and Region 7, while over 3,000 personnel under Joint Task Force (JTF) Storm were deployed in Region 8, as he emphasized the AFP’s resolve in securing this democratic process.

Reyed added that to ensure real-time security monitoring, VISCOM has activated its Election Monitoring Cell (EMC), a crucial mechanism to synchronize troop movements, closely monitor the security situation, and facilitate coordination among partner agencies.

This mechanism enables swift responses to potential threats and strengthens security forces' capacity to sustain security and stability throughout the election period.  VISCOM said that troops have been strategically positioned across the Visayas region, ready to counter potential threats, prevent election-related incidents, and ensure that voters can safely participate, the Commander added.

 

AFP personnel have been strategically positioned in key areas, particularly those identified as Areas of Immediate Concern and Areas of Grave Concern, to prevent any threats that may disrupt the electoral process.

With proactive security measures and coordinated efforts with the COMELEC and PNP, VISCOM assures safe and peaceful environment for all voters.  Reyes called on the public to exercise their democratic right by making informed decisions on May 12.

"We call upon every citizen in the Visayas to exercise their right to vote wisely. Your voice shapes the future of our nation, and it is through informed, principled voting that we uphold democracy. Let us stand together in ensuring a peaceful, fair, and meaningful election,” Lt/Gen Reyeg concluded.

Naval Forces Central conducts inspection prior to deployment

In similar developments the Naval Forces Central (NFC) Naval Base Rafael Ramos (NBRR), Lapu-Lapu City conducted Personnel and Equipment Readiness Inspection on May 9 prior deployment of some 80 personnel to augment security forces in Cebu for the National and Local Elections on May 12.

According to the Naval Forces Central, detailed personnel comes from HNFC and OPCON / TACON units and are tasked-organized to compose the Command’s security contingent that will be placed under the Operational Control (OPCON) of the Joint Task Group Cebu to ensure Unity of Command and coordinated mission execution within the assigned Area of Operations.

Commodore Joselito De Guzman PN, Commander, Naval Forces Central (CNFC) conveyed his warm regards to the personnel set to be deployed in Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and Municipalities of Consolacion and Cordova and wished them well for a safe and successful deployment.

“Your Navy in the Visayas assures the public that its personnel are fully prepared physically, mentally and administratively; and that all mission-essential equipment are complete and deployment-ready.  NFC remains steadfast in its commitment to support and ensure the honest, orderly and peaceful conduct of the 2025 National and Local Elections,” Commodore de Guzman said. (Photos: AFP-VISCOM/NAVFORCEN)