The regional police director for MIMAROPA has issued a stern warning Wednesday against partisan political activity among officers, as the country approaches midterm elections in a region with a history of electoral violence.

Brig. Gen. Roger Quesada directed all unit commanders to maintain strict political neutrality and ensure accountability among their personnel with less than a week before the May 12 vote.

“Political neutrality is not just a guideline—it is a duty,” Quesada said. “We must not allow ourselves to be used or influenced by any political interest.”

The directive follows instructions from national police chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil during a nationwide command conference Tuesday. The order comes amid ongoing drive to reform the Philippine National Police following controversies in recent years that have damaged public trust.

In MIMAROPA region—comprising Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan—elections have particular importance due to the area’s tourist destinations, agricultural importance, and some conflict-affected zones where security concerns are heightened.

“There is no place in this organization for those who break the law or tarnish the image of the PNP,” Quesada said. “We will act decisively and without hesitation.”

The timing of this warning, just days before the polls open, suggests increased vigilance as campaign activities intensify in the final week. Political tensions typically escalate during this period in Philippine elections.

Quesada stressed that police chiefs must intensify internal monitoring and enforce discipline policies to prevent the security forces from being used to influence election outcomes.

File Photo: courtesy of PNP MIMAROPA