POLICE chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil yesterday warned policemen against engaging in partisan political activities as the country enters the political season with the filing of the Certificates of Candidacies (COCs) for next year’s mid-term elections start next week.

“The PNP is tasked with protecting the democratic process, not participating in it,” Marbil said as he stressed: “Any form of political interference, whether directly or indirectly, will be met with swift and decisive action.”

The filing of COCs for the 2025 National and Local Elections (NLE) is set from October 1 to 8.

Marbil said the PNP is “entering a crucial period as candidates for the 2025 elections begin filing their certificates of candidacy.”

“I am directing all local police units to remain vigilant, perform their duties efficiently under the Quad (intelligence, investigation, operations and community relations) principle, and ensure public safety,” he said.

The PNP chief also told policemen to uphold law and order without any bias or political partisanship. “At the same time, I am reminding every officer that political neutrality is a core responsibility. Do not allow yourselves to be influenced or used by politicians,” he said.

Marbil said the PNP “will not tolerate any officer who compromises our commitment to neutrality and fairness,” adding that the behavior of policemen in the elections will affect PNP efforts to gain public trust.

He likewise urged the public to report any irregularity committed by police personnel. “Our goal is to deliver a safe and credible election. With the cooperation of the public and the dedication of our police force, we will succeed in ensuring that the 2025 elections are fair and peaceful,” he said.

The PNP said it will collaborate with various agencies to ensure security during the filing of candidacies and throughout the election period.

Marbil last week asked police commanders to start making early security preparations for the polls so they can make the necessary recommendations to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on what areas should be placed under the control of the police and the poll body.

Meanwhile, CBCP – Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People (ECMI) Vice Chairman Bishop Ruperto Santos yesterday called on the Filipino faithful to vote for candidates who have genuine interest to lead and help the country.

In his homily for the 29th National Seafarers’ Sunday, Santos said voters must not go for candidates who are only able to show their entertainment skills, instead of genuine platforms.

“Let us choose those who will truly help us. Not those who will just sing or dance for us. Not those who will only make us laugh. And not those who will do or say nothing when our God is mocked and our Catholic faith is disrespected,” said Santos.

“The basis of voting should not be about camaraderie, promises, endorsers, nor who is more popular. We must choose correctly, wisely, and worthily. Because if we don’t choose correctly, we will regret it and suffer in the end. If we vote for those who are honest, true, and genuine, we can expect good and effective leadership,” he said.

In selecting the right candidates, Santos said voters must go for candidates who are honest, hardworking, and helpful.

“What we should reflect on is not who we will vote for, but how we will vote. And in our voting, look at our overseas Filipino workers. They are well-known all over the world, and they have three characteristics. What are these? Honest, hardworking, and helpful,” said Santos.

He stressed that seafarers go abroad not to steal, not to deceive, and not to take advantage, but rather work hard, are not choosy in their jobs, help those they serve, and seek to improve the future of their loved ones.

“Let us remember that a position in the government is not a source of personal gain, not for getting rich, and not for obtaining privileges. Let us choose someone like you, who is honest and faithful in their duties,” said the prelate.

Santos also noted how there are no lazy seafarers who just hang around, but are rather always working wholeheartedly, while putting in skill and excellence.

“Let’s choose someone who is easy to talk to, easy to find, and not intimidating to approach. Let’s choose someone who will work and serve for our benefit. Someone who will not make things difficult for us, will not take from us, and will not tempt us,” said the bishop.

Lastly, he said Filipino seafarers always help their families and relatives by giving everything, always sending money, food, clothes, and items in balikbayan boxes, as well as contribute significantly to the economy.

“Helping is not about dole-outs. Helping is not about meeting physical needs. And helping means not waiting to be acknowledged, not to be thanked for,” said Santos.