Cotabato city: Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairperson George Garcia assured the public on Tuesday that preparations for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliamentary elections remain on schedule, with the overall peace and order situation described as "manageable."
According to Philippines News Agency, Garcia reported that none of the 105 municipalities and two cities in the BARMM have filed petitions to be placed under Comelec control. He noted that areas initially categorized as 'red' have been downgraded to 'orange' or 'green,' indicating improved security conditions as election day approaches. He assured that recent violent incidents in the region were not related to the elections, citing a grenade attack in Maguindanao del Sur and a councilor's killing as unrelated to electoral activities.
Garcia highlighted that the poll body is "95 percent ready" for the scheduled BARMM parliamentary elections on September 14. He urged the public to disregard false information circulating online, suggesting that the elections might be canceled. With nearly 2.4 million voters expected to participate, 5,212 polling precincts will be operational, each accommodating up to 600 voters.
He further explained that sufficient funds and collaboration with the Bangsamoro Parliament allowed for a reduced number of voters per precinct, facilitating the increase in polling locations. Garcia confirmed that all ballots have been printed and packed, with deployment underway. Technicians have arrived in Cotabato City for training, and teachers, alongside 3,000 Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel, are set to begin training next week.
Garcia emphasized that the PNP personnel are being trained to serve as substitutes for teachers if necessary on election day. These personnel will receive Department of Science and Technology (DOST) certification, ensuring they are as qualified as the electoral board members. All critical preparations, including election materials, are expected to be completed by the end of August, with everything in place by the first week of September.
