Comelec increases security for BARMM parliamentary elections

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is increasing security measures ahead of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliamentary elections scheduled for September 14. Comelec Spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco noted that the number of checkpoints in the region has risen to nearly 25,000 to ensure order.

Comelec Chair George Erwin Garcia expressed confidence that the elections will be peaceful and orderly, stating the agency is ‘in full control’ of the situation. While there have been various shooting incidents in the region, Garcia noted that only one—the August 15 ambush on the convoy of BARMM interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua—has been classified as election-related.

Authorities are strictly enforcing a gun ban that has been in effect since July 16. So far, fifteen individuals have been apprehended and over 20 firearms have been seized. Violators of the gun ban face imprisonment, loss of voting rights, and disqualification from public office.