Dumaguete: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has identified Guihulngan City and Basay town as election hotspots in Negros Oriental due to previous incidents of violence and political rivalries. Guihulngan City is classified under the red category, indicating the most critical level of concern following past election-related violence, including the killing of a candidate. Basay town falls under the orange category, highlighting political tensions and a shooting incident during the 2022 elections.
According to Philippines News Agency, of the 25 cities and municipalities in the province, the remaining 23 fall under the yellow category, indicating a moderate risk level, as stated by Comelec-Negros Oriental supervisor Eddie Aba. Aba announced these classifications during a Comelec-initiated unity walk, interfaith prayer, and peace covenant signing at the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office. This event brought together election officials, law enforcement agencies, and candidates for a briefing on election-related laws and a pledge for peaceful and orderly elections.
Governor Manuel Sagarbarria, who is seeking election after replacing deceased Roel Degamo and Carlo Reyes, was notably absent from the event. Former governor Pryde Henry Teves also missed the gathering. Dumaguete Mayor Felipe Antonio Remollo did not attend, but his rival for the second congressional district seat, Vice Mayor Maria Isabel Sagarbarria, was present.
Additionally, Third District congressional candidates Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo, widow of the slain Roel Degamo, and Janice Teves-Gaston, aunt of ousted congressman Arnolfo Teves Jr. and his brother, Pryde Henry, were in attendance. Candidates for vice governor and board members also signed the peace covenant, along with officials from the Comelec, Philippine National Police, Philippine Army, other uniformed services, priests, pastors from various churches, and the Diocesan Electoral Board.
