Manila: The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on Wednesday directed all its regional offices to intensify their alert and preparedness measures less than a week before the midterm elections on May 12. OCD chief Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno emphasized the importance of ensuring a safe, secure, and orderly voting process through increased vigilance and coordinated efforts.
According to Philippines News Agency, Nepomuceno stated that the role of the OCD is crucial in maintaining peace and resilience against disasters during the elections. He highlighted that preparedness and coordination are vital in protecting lives, maintaining peace, and fostering public confidence in the electoral process. Nepomuceno added that every step taken helps ensure the conduct of a smooth, credible election.
This directive follows a recent amendment by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), extending the “blue alert” period from May 9 to 14. Originally set to begin on May 11, this extension allows agencies more time to monitor developments and respond swiftly to emergencies. Duty officers from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, and Philippine National Police are to remain on duty at the NDRRM Operation Center to facilitate seamless coordination and address requests and concerns from their respective agencies.
All OCD regional offices (OCDROs) and regional disaster risk reduction and management operations centers (Regional DRRMOCs) are tasked with intensifying monitoring, consolidating reports, and promptly reporting all election-related incidents. They are instructed to maintain close coordination with law enforcement and other partners to respond quickly to emerging issues. Reports on incidents monitored from May 9 to 14 will be submitted via the NDRRMC Monitoring Dashboard. All agencies involved are expected to stay vigilant and regularly update the center on preparedness measures and situation reports.
Nepomuceno expressed that this extension and heightened alert demonstrate an unwavering commitment to national security and public safety. He assured that all resources and personnel are being mobilized to ensure readiness for any eventuality as Election Day approaches. He also urged all stakeholders-candidates, voters, and election officials-to remain vigilant and cooperate to ensure a peaceful and credible election.
