Lanao Del Sur JSCC Convenes for 2010 Elections

Marawi City, Lanao Sur - The Lanao del Sur Joint Security Control Center formally convened on January 24, 2010 at the Social Hall of the Provincial Capitol in Marawi City after a series of preliminary meetings. This was attended by the members of the JSCC which includes the COMELEC, the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Leading the discussions were: ARMM Election Supervisor Atty Rey Sumalipao; Police Director Felizardo Serapio of Western Mindanao Directorate for Integrated Police Operations; PSSupt Bienvenido Latag, PRO-ARMM Regional Director; Atty Nasib Yasin, Provincial Election Supervisor and BGen Rey C Ardo AFP of the 103^rd Infantry Brigade. Also present during the meeting were the Municipal Election Supervisors, the Chiefs of Police of the different municipalities and the Battalion Commanders, Company Commanders and Staffs of all units under the 103^rd Brigade.

Atty Nasib Yassin, who is also Chairman of the Lanao del Sur JSCC, discussed the workings of the JSCC. He explained the different COMELEC Resolutions covering the conduct of an honest, orderly, and peaceful elections (HOPE) on May 10, 2010. He talked lengthily on the implementation of the Gun Ban and the conduct of COMELEC checkpoints. He reported that feedbacks from the civilians favor the establishment of these checkpoints.

The briefing of the 103^rd Infantry Brigade showed that since the start of the COMELEC checkpoint last January 10, a total of 16 persons were apprehended for violation of the Gun Ban: seven (7) policemen, one (1) soldier, one (1) MILF member, one (1) security guard, and four (4) civilians. The following firearms have been confiscated: four (4) cal 45 pistol, four (4) 9mm pistol, two (2) 12 gauge shotgun, one (1) Cal.38 revolver, and three (3) M16 rifles.

In his message, BGen Ardo asked for the cooperation and understanding of everybody in the conduct of these checkpoints as the soldiers are just following the guidelines stipulated in the COMELEC resolution. He also explained that the soldiers are always reminded to be polite and respectful in dealing with the motorists. “I am inviting the public to visit my office in case a soldier under my command manifests arrogance in the conduct of checkpoint,” he said as he stressed his point. He assured everyone with a commitment that the AFP will always be around to ensure a peaceful election. He suggested that all the candidates sign a covenant that they will support the conduct of an honest, peaceful and orderly election in May.

For his part, PSSupt Bienvenido Latag enjoined everyone to do their share to make the coming election successful. He stressed, particularly to the PNP COPs, that the gun ban should be applied equally to everyone, regardless of his or her position in the government or status in life. He commended the good working relationship between the Lanao del Sur PNP and the 103^rd Brigade.

During the open forum, Atty Pacaambung Macabando, the Provincial Prosecutor, Zenaida Ampatua, School Div Supt II and the others present expressed their support to ensure the success of the incoming election. Atty Macabando relayed the expectations of the people that finally elections in Lanao del Sur will be peaceful, even as he enjoined everyone to support the JSCC.

Police Director Serapio took time to explain the importance of the Joint Security Control Center and its mechanics as well as the important role of all those present whom he called the real heroes of the elections. He emphasized that coordination among the stakeholders is important for the success of the elections.

In closing, Atty Rey Sumalipao aired his hope that with the early preparations, the elections in Lanao del Sur will be successful and more credible. He also expressed his frustration that the province has been branded as the cheating capital of the Philippines. He said that the computerization of the elections will allow for the early publication of the results and minimize the election protests. He challenged everyone to do their share in changing public perceptions on how politics is done in this part of the country.

Other personalities who attended the meeting includes: Atty Lacsasa Macabangon, Marawi City Prosecutor; PSupt Siegfredo Kanos, ROPD PRO-ARMM; Col Felix J Castro Jr, 103^rd Deputy Brigade Commander, LTC Giovanni Franza of 51IB, LTC Jed G Motus of 65IB, LTC Rolando Nerona of 64IB and Normalla Pangandaman, School Div Supt I. (PR/2Lt Mayleen P. Sagadraca,S7-103^rd Bde, 1ID PA)

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