The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) clarified its position on a leaked memorandum, which ordered personnel deployed during the administration's senatorial bets' campaign rally in Davao del Norte to wear a "touch of red."
In a statement on Saturday, DCPO acting City Director PCol. Hansel Marantan emphasized that the DCPO remains an "apolitical and non-partisan organization," focused solely on ensuring public safety and security.
He further explained that the internal memorandum was circulated without authorization on social media, clarifying that it was in response to a request from the Police Regional Office 11 (PRO 11) for 55 DCPO personnel to assist the Presidential Security Group (PSG) as inner security during the scheduled visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his delegation.
On February 15, President Marcos personally endorsed the 12 senatorial candidates of Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas during a rally in Davao del Norte.
"We emphasize that this deployment is a standard security measure aimed soley at ensuring the security and safety of the President, the event venue, and the public," said Marantan.
"DCPO upholds its duty to protect all citizens, regardless of political affiliations, and remains neutral and professional in all its operations," he added.
The leaked memorandum instructed police personnel deployed in the area to wear civilian clothing with a touch of red and without firearms.
Moreover, the memorandum sparked criticism, with some questioning the impartiality of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Marantan then urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation or speculation about the issue.
He also assured that the DCPO remains committed to its mission of serving and protecting the people of Davao City with integrity, professionalism, and dedication.
