This directive follows a recent amendment by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), extending the Blue Alert period from May 9 to 14.
The alert now runs from 8 a.m. on May 9 until 8 a.m. on May 14, giving agencies more time to monitor developments and respond swiftly to emergencies.
The Office of Civil Defense (OCD), led by its Administrator, Undersecretary Ariel F. Nepomuceno, has issued a directive through Assistant Secretary Cesar M. Idio, Deputy Administrator for Operations, to all regional offices to intensify their alert and preparedness measures in the lead-up to the May 12, 2025, national and local elections.
The move aims to ensure a safe, secure, and orderly voting process through heightened vigilance and coordinated efforts.
“The role of the OCD is crucial in making sure the election is peaceful, safe, and resilient against disasters,” said OCD Administrator Undersecretary Nepomuceno.
“Our preparedness and coordination are vital in protecting lives, maintaining peace, and fostering public confidence in the electoral process. Every step we take now helps ensure a smooth, credible election.”
To support these efforts, Duty Officers from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, and Philippine National Police are to remain on duty at the NDRRMOC.
Their presence is intended to facilitate seamless coordination, requests, and concerns from their respective agencies.
All OCD Regional Offices (OCDROs) and Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Centers (Regional DRRMOCs) are also tasked with intensifying monitoring, consolidating reports, and promptly reporting all election-related incidents. They are instructed to maintain close coordination with law enforcement and other partners to respond quickly to emerging issues.
Reports on incidents monitored from May 9 to 14 will be submitted via the NDRRMC Monitoring Dashboard. All agencies involved are expected to stay vigilant and regularly update the center on preparedness measures and situation reports.
“This extension and heightened alert reflect our unwavering commitment to national security and public safety,” said Nepomuceno. “We are mobilizing all resources and personnel to ensure we are ready for any eventuality as Election Day approaches.”
He urged all stakeholders—candidates, voters, and election officials—to remain vigilant and cooperate, to ensure a peaceful and credible election.
As the country nears Election Day, the OCD and its partners reiterate their commitment to safeguarding the electoral process and public safety through continuous vigilance, preparedness, and coordination.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reports monitoring 362 election hotspots as of April 25, down from 941 in 2019 and 844 in 2022.
