Politicians’ cop escorts recalled

THE Police Regional Office Central Visayas (PRO 7) has started recalling police officers who are serving as security detail to politicians and private individuals in Central Visayas.

This follows the order of Philippine National Police Chief Dionardo Carlos to review the deployment of police officers working as close-in bodyguards of politicians.

The Police Security Protection Group (PSPG) and police station chiefs identify police officers who have relatives running as candidates in the May 2022 elections.

The recall of police security detail is contained in the Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution No. 10728, which set the rules on recall of security detail and gun ban during the election period from January 9, 2022 to June 8, 2022.

PRO 7 Director Roque Eduardo Vega said his office is coordinating with the Comelec in Central Visayas for the implementation of the resolution.

Cebu City Police Office Director Josefino Ligan said they do not have personnel deployed as security detail to politicians.

The mayor and vice mayor of Cebu City have no police escorts, unless they have public events to attend to.

Ligan said a team of police officers in plain clothes are sent to the venue in advance to protect the top two officials of Cebu City. (AYB / KAL)