ILOILO City – Yesterday’s midterm elections in Western Visayas were off to a mostly peaceful start but police were looking into two separate incidents that may involve violations of election rules.
Lieutenant Colonel Arnel Solis, spokesperson for the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6), said that as of midday, no major election-related violence has been reported.
“So far, the conduct of the elections has been smooth and orderly. We’ve only recorded two isolated cases –one each in Aklan and Capiz,” he said.
In Madalag, Aklan, a 56-year-old man was arrested on May 11 at a checkpoint in Barangay Poblacion carrying a bag filled with envelopes of cash — amounting to P21,900 — and campaign materials.
Authorities suspect the money may have been intended for vote buying.
Meanwhile in Mambusao, Capiz, a 57-year-old security guard was caught taking a photo of his completed ballot — a clear breach of election laws. He was apprehended upon the complaint of the Electoral Board.
The two suspects were in the custodial facilities of the local police stations, pending the filing of appropriate charges.
Despite the incidents, police said the region remained calm, with all precincts receiving their election materials on time. PRO-6 continued to monitor the situation as of press time, urging the public to stay vigilant and report anything suspicious.
“We want voters to feel safe and confident. We’ll keep doing our part to make sure their voices are heard, fairly and freely,” Solis added. (PNA)
