Comelec: Eleksyon 2025 Campaign, ‘Karaniwang Payapa’—Pero Ano’ng Nangyayari sa Likod ng Eksena?

Despite some violent incidents, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) confirms that the Eleksyon 2025 campaign period remains largely peaceful.

“Generally peaceful ang buong Pilipinas. Kahit ang Negros Island Region, generally peaceful,” said Comelec chair George Erwin Garcia, reassuring the public.

Candidates might argue, but Garcia stresses it’s mostly words, not fists. “Pinapanatili ng mga kandidato na kung meron man silang away, salitaan lang pero walang sakitan. Okay lang yun basta may respeto.”

The Philippine National Police recently reported 30 validated election-related incidents (ERIs) so far—22 violent and 8 non-violent. The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao tops the list with eight violent incidents, followed by six in the Cordillera Administrative Region and three in the Zamboanga Peninsula. Other regions like Ilocos, Central Luzon, Eastern Visayas, Davao, and Soccsksargen account for one violent incident each.

Garcia notes, “Kumpara noong 2019 at 2020, di hamak na mas mababa pero siyempre may 11 days pa tayo at ayaw natin magbigay ng pinal na conclusion.” The remaining days before the May 12 election still hold the key.

What matters most, he says, is that the campaign continues to be orderly.

As of May 1, the number of election hotspots under the “red” alert dropped slightly to 36 from 38 in January. These areas are high-risk zones for election-related violence.

Meanwhile, Buluan in Maguindanao del Sur and Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao del Norte are now under Comelec control due to escalating violence. This gives Comelec direct authority over officials and law enforcement in these municipalities to maintain order.

With just days left before Eleksyon 2025, all eyes remain peeled for what might come. The nation watches as democracy unfolds.