ILOILO CITY — In an unprecedented security operation, the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO6) is mobilizing 3,265 officers across various units to oversee the filing of certificates of candidacy (COC) for the 2025 national and local elections from October 1 to 8.
According to Philippines News Agency, PRO6 director Brig. Gen. Jack Wanky detailed the security preparations at a recent press briefing, noting the strategic choice of filing venues—primarily malls, which he described as “controlled and secured” environments. The arrangement involves deploying approximately 265 officers directly at the venues for COC filings, while the remainder of the force, exceeding 3,000 personnel, will assist in traffic management and maintain security on the streets.
In Iloilo City, COC filings will take place at Robinsons Mall in the City Proper district, with provincial candidacies being registered at Festive Mall in the Mandurriao district. Brig. Gen. Wanky also highlighted proactive measures taken by the police, including consultations with local government units to promote fairness during the election period. He emphasized the importance of ethical campaign practices and cooperation with law enforcement to ensure a peaceful and orderly electoral process.
Furthering their commitment to impartiality, PRO6 has initiated a directive for the reassignment of officers who are related up to the fourth degree by affinity or consanguinity to any candidates. These officers will be temporarily relocated to different stations or held in reserve at the provincial police office to prevent any potential conflicts of interest or perceptions of bias. Post-election, these officers will return to their original assignments.