MANILA, Philippines — Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chair George Erwin Garcia said on Thursday it is still premature to place the province of Cagayan under Comelec control, following the fatal shooting of Rizal Mayor Joel Ruma during a campaign event.
“We are still waiting for the official report from the Philippine National Police (PNP). We are reviewing the current classification of Cagayan and may consider upgrading it from orange to red. At the same time, if necessary, we will deploy additional forces,” Garcia said in an interview with Super Radyo dzBB.
He reiterated that placing the province under Comelec control is not yet warranted at this stage.
“Ang paglalagay sa Comelec control, at this point, masyadong early pa,” Garcia said.
Fatal Shooting of Mayor Joel Ruma
According to initial police findings, Ruma was shot at around 9:30 p.m. Wednesday. He sustained a gunshot wound to the right shoulder, with the bullet exiting through his upper right back. He was rushed to the Tuao District Hospital, where he was declared dead at 10:31 p.m.
Two other individuals were injured in the attack:
One sustained a gunshot wound to the right elbow
Another suffered injuries to the chest and lower back
Comelec Eyes Escalation of Alert Level
Cagayan is currently classified under the orange category in the Comelec’s election watchlist—indicating areas with a history of election-related violence or potential threats. An escalation to red classification would reflect a more serious concern, potentially prompting heightened security measures and coordination with law enforcement.
Other Areas Already Under Comelec Control
Comelec has already placed two municipalities under its direct control ahead of the May 12, 2025 midterm elections due to similar incidents of political violence:
Buluan, Maguindanao del Sur
Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte
Under Comelec control, the poll body assumes full supervision of all election activities in the area, including direct authority over local police and government officials.
Context: Comelec Control Explained
Declaring an area under Comelec control allows the commission to:
Deploy additional military and police forces
Override local authorities in maintaining peace and order
Ensure a free, fair, and safe electoral process
As tensions rise ahead of the 2025 midterms, authorities continue to monitor high-risk areas to prevent further election-related violence.