Election-related incidents report 16 deaths since January 12
The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced on Election Day that a total of 16 people have died in 46 validated election-related incidents since the start of the election period on January 12, 2025. This figure reflects the ongoing challenges in ensuring a peaceful voting process across the country.
During a press briefing, Police Colonel Randulf Tuaño, head of the PNP public information office, also mentioned that authorities are still verifying 31 suspected election-related incidents. Despite these concerns, he emphasized that the May 2025 midterm election has generally proceeded peacefully.
Details of election-related incidents report 16 deaths
Earlier reports from the PNP indicated that by 1 p.m. on Election Day, four individuals had died and 12 others sustained injuries. Two fatalities occurred in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), where a shooting involved a municipal councilor candidate and the brother of a barangay chairman.
The other two deaths took place in the Negros Island Region, an incident that also left eight people injured. These tragic events highlight the localized violence that can still emerge during crucial national exercises like elections.
Election-related incidents report 16 deaths includes various challenges
A total of 12 election-related incidents have been reported on Election Day across several regions, including Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, BARMM, Negros Island Region, Metro Manila, and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). These incidents ranged from armed clashes and shootings to delays in automated counting machines, robberies, and fires.
Despite these hurdles, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) set early voting hours from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and pregnant women. However, these groups were allowed to vote beyond 7 a.m. until precincts closed. Regular voting hours for all voters were scheduled from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure the safety and integrity of the election process amid these election-related incidents.