Manila - As of 10:58 a.m. on Monday, 98% of all polling precincts for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) have opened,
According to Philippines News Agency, Col. Jean Fajardo, PNP public information office chief and spokesperson, noted that this figure is an increase from the 93.1% of precincts that were open as of 8 a.m. In a separate statement, PNP Chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda affirmed the police force's commitment to maintaining peace and order during the elections. Voting centers across the nation will remain open until 3 p.m.
Acorda highlighted that the police force is actively monitoring and responding to any election-related incidents (ERIs). Despite challenges such as reported ERIs during the nine-day campaign period, Acorda stated that these did not substantially affect the overall security environment for the electoral process. Enforcement of the money ban, which was implemented two days prior, and the liquor ban, effective since Sunday and lasting until midnight today, is being actively monitored and enforced.
Reports of alleged vote buying in specific areas received last week have been forwarded to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for appropriate action, Acorda added. "We have made extensive preparations to ensure the safety and integrity of the voting process. Our dedicated personnel are strategically positioned in areas under Comelec control, such as Libon, Albay, and Negros Oriental, where relative peace and order have been observed," he noted. Despite the reported significant incidents, the current security situation remains stable in these areas.
Acorda concluded by urging Filipino voters to protect the integrity of the electoral process. "Our purpose is clear and that is to establish a space where the voices of our citizens can reverberate with strength and clarity. These elections are the pillars of our democracy, and it is our duty to protect the integrity of every vote, every voter, and every individual longing for a just, liberated, and peaceful Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections," he said.