Comelec wants dialogue with PNP over ‘Oplan Katok’

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THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) yesterday called for a dialogue with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to discuss its “Oplan Katok,” warning that the program could be used to intimidate voters and candidates amid the election period.

In an interview, Comelec chairman George Garcia said they would like to explore ways to improve the program’s operational guidelines and make it less prone to abuses.

“To the PNP, since they are our deputized agency, it would be better if they’ll submit to us their operational plan on conducting ‘Oplan Katok’. This is so the Comelec can contribute how to improve it and provide protection to the rights of everyone,” Garcia said.

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He added: “Being a deputized agency, technically, everything they do can be looked into by the Comelec, especially if it will ensure peaceful and honest elections.”

He said the poll body will not oppose or stop the program, “but we will reassess” its “good elements.”

“We know there are no abuses being reported. Nevertheless, I don’t think it would be wrong if the Comelec can review it,” he said.

The poll chief said the election period makes the program prone to being used by politicians and unscrupulous individuals. 

“Under the guise of ‘Oplan Katok,’ there are those that may use it to intimidate others and tell them not to vote or not to go to polling precincts or else be accused of having expired firearm licenses. These things can really happen, especially in far-flung areas,” Garcia explained.

The Comelec has earlier raised concerns that Oplan Katok, which is a PNP door-to-door campaign against expired firearm licenses, could lead to abuses.

In response, the PNP has said that the program is not an election-related activity but rather is part of its regular functions.

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