The Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Negros Oriental has announced plans to deliver ballots and election paraphernalia to over 100 critical areas in the province earlier than the usual schedule.
According to a new release by the Philippines News Agency, this decision aims to ensure that the teachers serving on electoral boards have sufficient time to rest and can start their duties on time on Election Day.
Lawyer Eliseo Labaria, acting provincial election supervisor, explained that teachers usually deliver official ballots, ballot boxes, and other election materials to voting centers on Election Day. However, due to the remote and inaccessible nature of some areas, as well as security concerns such as the presence of Communist insurgents, early deliveries are necessary.
The earliest deliveries will be made to the two farthest areas: Sitio Bucao in Barangay Mandu-ao and Sitio Gintangaan in Barangay Tayawan, both in Bayawan City. Over 100 areas across the province, including Apo Island in Dauin town, will also receive early deliveries. The Coast Guard will assist the police and military in the delivery process, ensuring the safety of the teachers involved.
Labaria emphasized that tight security measures are in place, with more than 3,000 combined security forces deployed in Negros Oriental. The province has been placed under Comelec control for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) to prevent violence following the assassination of Gov. Roel Degamo and nine others on March 4.
Additionally, Labaria urged the public to report any instances of vote-buying as the election approaches. His office received complaints about an activity in a Dumaguete City barangay where individuals allegedly received PHP2,000 each as "ayuda" (assistance). While the details are not yet clear, photos have been forwarded to the Comelec provincial office. Labaria encouraged senders to file complaints through email to the Comelec central office under its Oplan Kontra Bigay program.