The Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) has pledged to provide security assistance for the inaugural Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections in 2025.
EastMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Luis Rex Bergante announced the deployment of personnel to assist in monitoring the elections during a press briefing at NCCC Victoria Plaza Mall on Tuesday, August 13.
Bergante highlighted the Armed Forces’ extensive experience in securing elections, stating that they are well-prepared for the task.
While acknowledging some security challenges within the EastMinCom area, he assured that these are minor compared to the complexities of the first BARMM elections.
“Securing our elections is not a new mission for the Armed Forces. Aside from the area in the Eastern Mmindanao Command na medyo may magulo, is nothing compared to the first elections sa BARMM,” the EastMinCom chief said.
He also noted that some forces would be stationed in the neighboring BARMM region due to its proximity.
Regarding private armed groups (PAGs) in EastMinCom’s jurisdiction, Bergante confirmed ongoing monitoring but stated that the number of identified PAGs is relatively small.
Although the exact number of soldiers to be deployed has not yet been determined, battalions from the 10th Infantry Division, located near the BARMM, will be part of the security augmentation.
This commitment from EastMinCom underscores the importance of ensuring a peaceful and secure environment for the historic BARMM elections, allowing the democratic process to proceed without disruption.
Photo by Bing Gonzalez
