CNN, EU to monitor Abra polls?

BANGUED, Abra – CNN International television and some members of the European Union are said to be arriving today to monitor the elections in Abra, one of the country’s poll hot spots.

"Yes, I have heard that they are coming here, but my office did not yet receive any formal information or instruction from higher-ups about this," said provincial police director Senior Superintendent Alexander Pumecha.

Lito Bigornia, a veteran newsman and anchorman of radio station dzPA based here, said they received information about the arrival today of the CNN crew headed by Cara Akipala, a Filipino journalist, for a special coverage of the elections here. A Catholic priest operates dzPA.

Last Friday, six people were killed and three others were wounded in yet another case of election-related violence in Abra when gunmen opened fire on the Mitsubishi Pajero carrying followers of Lagayan town Mayor Cecille Luna, who is pitted against incumbent Gov. Vicente Valera in the congressional race.

Abra has been placed under the control of the Commission on Elections.

Last December, Abra Rep. Luis Bersamin was gunned down in front of the Mt. Carmel Church in Quezon City. His brother, Eustaquio, is running for governor against Valera’s wife. – Myds Supnad