Comelec: Army to re-enforce conduct of checkpoints in metro
It seems that the paranoia over the deployment of military personnel in Iloilo City is unfounded.
This, after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) assured that the soldiers will only help the existing personnel of the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) in the conduct of checkpoints.
Recently, militant groups protested the military deployment claiming that they are not trained for such purpose.
But Comelec regional director Atty. Dennis Ausan said that the main purpose for the deployment of the composite team is to help in the conduct of checkpoints.
He added that while the soldiers will serve as an augmentation force, the PNP will still act as the lead agency in the conduct of checkpoints in Iloilo City.
“Ang lead agency will be the PNP. They will just be an augmentation force, sort of a back-up. The PNP will still conduct the checkpoint. The judgment calls that should be done will be made by the PNP officer present. Masunod lang ‘ya ang AFP,” Ausan clarified.
It was also made clear during a conference of the oversight security committee that those manning the checkpoints should ensure guidelines are being followed.
Before reaching such decision, Ausan said that they have taken into consideration the impact it would have in Iloilo City.
Further, soldiers were also told to inform the Comelec the schedule, the area and the personnel who will man the checkpoints.
They are also told to return to barracks after rendering their official duty and not to roam in the city while still don in their battle dress attire.
Earlier, Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) officer-in-charge Senior Supt. Dennis Basngi said that one section or some 19 personnel from the Philippine Army will be sent for deployment.
The personnel will come from the 82nd Infantry Battalion based in Camp Monteclaro in Miag-ao town, Iloilo.
Basngi acknowledged the need for an augmentation force because of the dearth of ICPO personnel over the current populace.
“We are managing but an additional muscle to our force is most welcome,” he said.
