The Philippine Army troops of the 43rd Division Reconnaissance Company (43DRC) and 72nd Division Reconnaissance Company (72DRC) were already deployed to different barangays and polling centers of Zamboanga Region and Misamis Occidental for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Election (BSKE) 2023 on October 30, 2023.
Together with police and coast guard personnel, the Army troops will provide security to Commission on Elections (COMELEC) personnel, poll deputies, and other government personnel performing election-related duties. They are likewise tasked to ensure the availability of transportation assets, communications systems, and other equipment to be used during the elections. Likewise, Army officers also conducted a briefing to ensure the readiness of the troops following the rules and regulations set forth by the COMELEC.
In his earlier guidance, Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido underscored the significant responsibilities of the Army troops in the coming polls: To practice the right of suffrage and to ensure the safe, orderly, and peaceful conduct of elections. The Army Chief has likewise directed troops to intensify its security efforts in collaboration with the government security forces nationwide.