Gunfire near polling center causes panic in Abra
Gunfire near a polling center in Bangued, Abra disrupted the voting morning on election day. The incident sent two people to the hospital, raising concerns about voter safety. Around 7 a.m., shots rang out close to Sagap Elementary School in Barangay Sagap, sparking panic among the voters who were lining up to cast their ballots.
Video footage from the scene showed people running in fear, and some even fainted amid the chaos. Although the voting process was briefly halted, it resumed shortly after once authorities secured the area.
Details about the gunfire near polling center
The barangay captain clarified that the shooting happened roughly 200 meters away from the school, near a riverbank, and not inside the school premises. Police reported that before the gunfire, a group of men wearing white shirts exited two vehicles and recorded videos in front of the school. These men caused some disturbance but were not seen carrying firearms.
Just one to two minutes after this group left, gunshots were heard nearby. Authorities have since increased their presence in the area to ensure the safety of voters and prevent further incidents.
Uncertain motives behind gunfire near polling center
At this time, it remains unclear who fired the shots or if the victims were deliberate targets or caught in stray bullets. The two injured individuals were rushed to a hospital with gunshot wounds to the shoulder and back. They have not yet given any statements regarding the incident.
Despite this alarming event, voting continues under heightened security measures to protect the community and uphold the democratic process.