Abra: The political group Asenso, spearheaded by Governor Dominic Valera and Vice Governor Joy Valera-Bernos, has formally requested the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to place the province of Abra under its control for the upcoming elections on May 12.

According to Philippines News Agency, Vice Governor Valera-Bernos expressed that Comelec control would ensure a more secure environment for supporters, allowing them to move freely without fear in a stable political climate. In a statement submitted to Comelec, she emphasized that such measures would involve deploying additional personnel, establishing monitoring systems, and enforcing strict regulations to prevent electoral fraud and violence.

The request was prompted by a series of violent incidents in Abra, which began in August 2024, leading to the reactivation of Task Force Abra. The Abra Police Provincial Office reported to the Regional Peace and Order Council that from January 12 to March 29 of the election period, there were 18 shooting incidents resulting in 12 deaths and 18 injuries. Additionally, four grenade-throwing incidents were recorded.

The Asenso group's statement highlighted that the police report did not account for threats, intimidation, and harassment faced by residents. Meanwhile, the Concerned Citizens of Abra for Good Government, a group including Catholic Bishop Leopoldo Jaucian, also urged Comelec to take control to alleviate fears stemming from the ongoing violence.

Abra's political landscape is characterized by competition between the Asenso group and the Progreso group, led by La Paz Mayor Joseph Santo Ni±o Bernos, who is Vice Governor Bernos' brother-in-law.