Army deploys two more provisional battalions for BARMM elections

The Philippine Army has sent two additional provisional battalions to Lanao del Sur ahead of the Sept. 14 Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections.

Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey Barroquillo Jr., commander of the Army’s 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division, led a send-off ceremony on Aug. 31, National Heroes Day. He told soldiers to act professionally and impartially and to respect voters’ rights.

“Our mission is to secure an environment where citizens can freely exercise their democratic right without fear, intimidation, or disruption,” Barroquillo said.

“

Our mission is to secure an environment where citizens can freely exercise their democratic right without fear, intimidation, or disruption.

The deployment raises the number of Army infantry battalions stationed in Lanao del Sur to 10. Armor and field artillery units are also supporting the forces. Division officials said the provisional battalions will provide additional personnel for a free, orderly, honest, and peaceful election within the division’s area of responsibility.

Maj. Noelio Brigole, the division spokesperson, said the two units were formed specifically for election security. “These are composite units drawn from headquarters and battalions outside Lanao del Sur. After the elections, they will be returned to their respective units,” he said.

“

These are composite units drawn from headquarters and battalions outside Lanao del Sur. After the elections, they will be returned to their respective units.