BSKE: 246 ‘red’ areas of concern

MANILA, Philippines — At least 246 areas nationwide have been classified under “red” or areas of grave concern in connection with the Oct. 30 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE).

Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia said more areas may be added to the  list of election hot spots, which was submitted by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), as election day approaches.

Garcia said many of the poll hot spots are in the 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 the recommendation of the police and military.

In Isabela, police director Col. Julio Go said 13 barangays in Ilagan City and the towns of San Pablo and Aurora had been identified as election areas of concern due to intense political rivalry and violence in the past two elections.

Go said 11 of the barangays are under ”yellow” category or areas of minor concern and two under ”orange” or areas of immediate concern.

‘No need for Comelec control in Socorro’

The Comelec said there is no reason at this time to place Socorro, Surigao del Norte under its control.

However, Garcia gave assurance that the poll body is ready to “interfere” if needed to ensure that residents will be able to cast their votes.

He cited discussions with PNP and AFP officials who said the situation in the town is not related to the BSKE.

Members of the Socorro Bayanihan Services have been conducting protest actions amid allegations of rape of minors and child marriages.

Meanwhile, the Comelec warned candidates against using barangay assembly days for partisan political activity.

“Elective barangay officials may be held liable for election offense if they are candidates, they use the activity and if they commit other prohibited acts under the Omnibus Election Code,” the Comelec said in a statement.

It said barangay assembly days, which shall be held on Saturdays or Sundays next month, are meant to discuss with residents the activities, finances and problems affecting the barangay.