BSKE 2023 has 246 'red' areas of concern
By Nidz Godino
"Elective barangay officials may be held liable for election offense if they are candidates, they use activity and if they commit other prohibited acts under Omnibus Election Code," Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia said in statement at least 246 areas nationwide have been classified under "red" or areas of grave concern in connection with Oct. 30,2023 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE).
Garcia said more areas may be added to list of election hot spots, submitted by Philippine National Police (PNP) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), as election day approaches.
Garcia said many of poll hot spots are in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and Eastern Visayas.
He said Libon, Albay may also be placed under Comelec control amid recent killings of barangay officials, depending on recommendation of police and military.
In Isabela, police director Col. Julio Go said 13 barangays in Ilagan City and towns of San Pablo and Aurora had been identified as election areas of concern due to intense political rivalry and violence in past two elections.
Go said 11 of barangays are under "yellow" category or areas of minor concern and two under "orange" or areas of immediate concern.
Comelec has no reason at this time to place Socorro, Surigao del Norte under its control.
Garcia gave assurance poll body is ready to "interfere" if needed to ensure residents will be able to cast their votes.
He cited discussions with PNP and AFP officials who said situation in town is not related to BSKE.
Members of Socorro Bayanihan Services have been conducting protest actions amid allegations of rape of minors and child marriages.
Meanwhile, Comelec warned candidates against using barangay assembly days for partisan political activity.
It said barangay assembly days, shall be held on Saturdays or Sundays next month, are meant to discuss with residents activities, finances and problems affecting barangay.
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