General Santos City, November 5, 2024 — In preparation for the May 2025 National and Local Elections and the BARMM Parliamentary Elections, the Regional Joint Security Control Center (RJSCC) Command Conference convened at the Police Regional Office 12 Multi-Purpose Hall in Barangay Tambler, General Santos City. The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region XII joined key government agencies and security forces in a coordinated effort to enhance security strategies and ensure a peaceful, orderly electoral process across Region 12.
The conference, chaired by Regional Election Director Atty. Wilfred Jay E. Balisado, brought together senior officials including Police Regional Director PBGen James E. Gulamtico and 1002nd Infantry Brigade Commander BGen Patricio Ruben P. Amata of the Philippine Army. With the aim of fostering collaboration and aligning operational plans, the RJSCC reinforced its commitment to securing the elections.
Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Jay P. Gerada welcomed the attendees, reiterating the essential role of each agency in ensuring electoral integrity and public trust. Atty. Gerada provided an overview of the election landscape, including the projected participation of 2,708,793 registered voters across Region 12, and reviewed COMELEC guidelines and prohibited acts during the election period. Key points from COMELEC Resolution No. 11067 were also discussed, particularly regarding the responsibilities of the Committee on Ban on Firearms and Security Concerns and the identification of election-sensitive areas.
During the conference, Police Regional Office 12 (PRO 12) detailed its security preparations, which include an upgraded Command Center that will serve as the Regional Election Monitoring and Action Center (REMAC) for real-time monitoring and response. PRO 12 also presented its Security Deployment Plan for 2025, designed to address areas with potential security risks and ensure safety throughout the election period.
The Philippine Army, represented by the 6th Infantry Brigade and 1002nd Infantry Brigade, outlined ongoing efforts to secure their Areas of Responsibility (AOR) and monitor possible threats from Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs). The Army’s Decisive Military Operations (DMO) will continue, with a focus on ensuring a stable environment for voters, in close coordination with the PNP and other law enforcement agencies.
The Department of Education (DepEd) Region XII presented its support structure for the elections, including the formation of a Task Force to monitor and coordinate election-related activities. The Task Force is designed to provide structured assistance, ensure transparency, and safeguard DepEd personnel involved in the elections.
Representing the DILG XII, LGOO VI Ian Jon S. Clemente conveyed the Department’s commitment to supporting COMELEC and RJSCC’s objectives. DILG XII pledged its readiness to assist with election-related mandates, reinforcing the agency’s dedication to a safe and transparent electoral process.
The conference saw participation from an extensive network of partner agencies, including the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology XII, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency XII, Department of Public Works and Highways XII, National Grid Corporation of the Philippines XII, Philippine Coast Guard XII, and the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting. Each agency contributed its specialized expertise, reflecting a comprehensive approach to securing the election environment in the region.
In his closing message, Atty. Balisado commended the agencies for their dedication and underscored the importance of their collective efforts. He reminded the attendees that their commitment is crucial for delivering a transparent and secure election, affirming the RJSCC’s unified vision for a peaceful election season.
The RJSCC Command Conference concluded with strong resolve and a clear path forward for a secure and well-coordinated approach to the May 2025 elections. Through these collaborative efforts, Region 12 aims to set a benchmark for electoral integrity and public confidence in the democratic process.
