In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure clean, honest, and peaceful elections across the country, the Philippine National Police (PNP) held a Tribute and Awarding Ceremony on May 23, 2025, at the PNP Multi-Purpose Center in Camp Crame to honor its Special Electoral Board (SEB) contingents.
The ceremony, led by PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, recognized the exemplary service and dedication of 241 SEB personnel who were present at the national headquarters. These included 175 from Police Regional Office 2 (PRO2), 37 from PRO4A, and 29 from PRO4B. The PNP deployed a total of 3,698 police officers as SEBs during the recent elections—stepping in to serve in areas where the Commission on Elections’ designated Board of Election Inspectors (BEIs) were unavailable.
In his keynote speech, PGen Marbil praised the bravery, professionalism, and impartiality of the SEB members, who went beyond their traditional policing roles to safeguard the democratic process in geographically isolated and conflict-affected areas.
“This is not just a ceremony—it is a tribute to your discipline, integrity, and deep sense of duty,” he said. “You stood at the frontlines of democracy—not armed with weapons, but with ballots.”
PGen Marbil emphasized that serving as part of an SEB is not an ordinary task. It demands a high level of competency, a deep understanding of electoral law, and a commitment to neutrality, especially in sensitive or high-risk areas.
Highlighting the significance of the Medalya ng Kadakilaan, which was awarded to each SEB member, PGen Marbil stated:
“This is a high honor. The lives you risked, the trust you upheld—these deserve more than just praise. These deserve to be worn and remembered.”
He reassured the SEB contingents that the PNP leadership stands firmly behind them:
“Just do your job with honesty and integrity, and we’ll always be here to support you. You are never alone in this service.”
PGen Marbil also reaffirmed the PNP’s fulfillment of its electoral mandate under the current administration:
“Mr. President, the PNP did its part. We ensured our people could vote freely and return home safely. Our personnel were out in the field—not just keeping the peace, but actively upholding democracy.”
He noted that the presence and professionalism of the SEBs restored public confidence in the electoral process and reaffirmed the PNP’s role as a pillar of democracy.
“Your service protected the sanctity of the ballot and strengthened the credibility of our elections. You showed the nation what true public service looks like.”
While the event at Camp Crame honored 241 personnel, regional tribute ceremonies are also being organized by various Police Regional Offices to acknowledge the remaining SEB members for their contributions.
The event was attended by members of the PNP Command Group, who joined PGen Marbil in presenting the medals, cash tokens, and certificates of appreciation to the awardees.
“Let this be a reminder that the most powerful tool we have is not our strength or our tactics—but our integrity. And today, you’ve shown what it truly means to wear this badge with honor,” PGen Marbil concluded.
This recognition event underscores the PNP’s vital role not only as a guardian of peace and order but also as a trusted protector of public trust and democratic values.
—PNP Public Information Office
#ToServeAndProtect
#SaBagongPilipinasAngGustongPulisLigtasKa
