16 areas in Central Visayas declared as election hot spots

Local

SECURITY forces have identified 16 election hot spots in Central Visayas, heightening preparations for the May 2025 midterm elections.

In a meeting with Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia, Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan, the new Regional Director of Police Regional Office-Central Visayas (PRO-7), presented security strategies that have been tailored by each provincial police office to ensure a smooth election day.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to safeguard polling stations, protect the safety of election officials, candidates, and staff, and secure critical infrastructure, including canvassing areas.

A key priority for Maranan is strengthening efforts against vote-buying, which he views as a major destabilizing factor as election day approaches.

He also emphasized that securing election paraphernalia to prevent fraud and ensure the integrity of the process is a central part of PRO-7's strategy.

Maranan shared that after assuming his post on January 10, he made it a priority to meet with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for the third Regional Security Council Meeting, reinforcing the readiness of the region’s police forces.

While there are 16 areas flagged for concern, including 14 in Negros Oriental and two in Bohol, Maranan assured that Cebu City remains free from election-related issues.

To safeguard Negros Oriental, an additional 200 officers will be deployed. Maranan will also be personally monitoring these identified hotspots.

As for security against private armed groups, Maranan reported the existence of one named "The Teves Group" and pledged further operations to dismantle criminal networks mobilized for election interference.

In a statement following the meeting, Maranan emphasized his gratitude for the collaborative efforts from Cebu City officials, especially after a smooth Sinulog celebration, for which Garcia rated the security measures "excellent."

Maranan responded by reinforcing that the strength of Cebu’s peacekeeping efforts will be maintained with the full backing of city leadership.

Meanwhile, Garcia updated Maranan on the city’s ongoing renovations for the Cebu City Police Office headquarters, worth P50 million, ensuring that local police forces are well-equipped for future security operations.

As he settles into his role, Maranan reflected on the critical responsibility of keeping order, assuring residents that with dedicated efforts from both law enforcement and local government, Cebu City will remain a secure locale in the run-up to the elections.(MyTVCebu)