Midterm elections preparation underway for May 12
Poll watchers across the country are gearing up for the midterm elections preparation underway this Monday, May 12. More than 68.4 million registered voters are expected to choose their leaders for national and local posts.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) handed over voting materials on Sunday, including automated teller machines and official ballots, to election boards in various polling centers. Meanwhile, election hotspots are under tighter security to ensure a peaceful voting day.
As of midnight Sunday, the campaign period officially ended, ushering in the mandatory campaign silence. Alongside this, a nationwide liquor ban took effect—except in hotels and establishments certified to serve foreign tourists.
Midterm elections preparation underway despite heat and challenges
The state weather agency PAGASA forecasts that on election day, at least 28 areas will experience a “danger level” heat index, with temperatures soaring up to 45 degrees Celsius in places like Sangley Point, Cavite City, and Catarman, Northern Samar.
Despite the scorching heat, the National Electrification Administration assured the public on Sunday that the energy sector is ready. They promise stable and sufficient electricity throughout the voting period.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported no serious threats days before the polls but remains vigilant. They are fully alert to help keep the May 12 elections peaceful, fair, and orderly.
Security measures and incidents amid midterm elections preparation underway
In some towns in Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao del Sur, uniformed personnel have stepped in as poll watchers after teachers withdrew due to local tensions.
Authorities in Bacong, Negros Oriental, apprehended a man suspected of vote-buying after finding cash and sample ballots in his motorcycle during a checkpoint stop.
Reports emerged from Zamboanga City of two deaths and ten injuries during a supposed payout for poll watchers in Tumaga. However, police denied a stampede occurred and attributed the fatalities to natural causes.
In Basilan, a deadly clash between mayoral supporters in Langil Island claimed four lives. The Armed Forces highlighted this as a reminder of ongoing politically motivated violence in conflict zones.
A teacher assigned to the electoral board was also ambushed while riding a motorcycle in Barangay Sumagdang, Lantawan, Isabela City. The assailants remain unidentified.
Midterm elections preparation underway amid vote-buying and public participation
Long queues formed in Quezon City, with some lining up for meetings and others for orientation sessions for poll watchers. Meanwhile, the Legal Network for Truthful Elections (LENTE) has recorded nearly 100 vote-buying cases this election season, ranging from Barangay halls to voters’ homes.
The Comelec urged the PNP to arrest vote buyers caught in the act without waiting for a warrant, assuring officers that they will be protected from legal repercussions for such actions.
Comelec Chair George Garcia expressed confidence that the elections will remain peaceful and orderly. He appealed to Filipinos to trust the process and avoid falling for fake news.
Among the top 20 voting centers with the most registered voters, 18 are in the National Capital Region. The largest is Nagpayong Elementary School in Pasig City’s 2nd District, with over 47,000 voters.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. encouraged Filipinos to vote responsibly and safeguard the election’s integrity. He also declared Election Day a special non-working holiday to give everyone a chance to vote.
Polling precincts will open early from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and pregnant women. Regular voting hours for all registered voters run from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
International observers and election day reminders
Members of the European Union Election Observation Mission will monitor the polling process. The Comelec allowed them to enter polling places only after voters have cast their ballots.
With midterm elections preparation underway, authorities remain focused on conducting a smooth, safe, and credible election for all Filipinos.