Soldiers Use Alcohol and Chili to Manage Voting Crowd
In Maguindanao del Sur, soldiers from the 601st Infantry Brigade took an unusual step to maintain order during the recent election. They sprayed a mixture of alcohol and crushed chili on supporters of rival candidates to help calm tensions. This approach aimed to ensure a smooth and peaceful voting process amid intense political competition.
The soldiers were also heard urging voters to keep calm and leave the polling stations promptly after casting their ballots. One soldier said, “Para po sa kapayapaan na hinihiling natin, manggagaling ‘yan dapat sa atin. Nakikiusap po tayo, lahat ng tapos na, dahan-dahan po tayong mag-exit.” (If we want peace, it should start from us. Everyone who is already done casting their vote can now exit.)
Relatively Peaceful Elections Thanks to Additional Forces
Despite the intense political atmosphere, the elections in the province were generally peaceful. The presence of additional troops contributed significantly to this outcome. Lieutenant Colonel Rod Orbon of the Philippine Army’s 6th Infantry Division remarked that the extra forces played a big role in achieving a relatively successful election in the area.
The provincial canvassing took place at the 6th Infantry Division camp to guarantee security during the process. This measure helped prevent any disruptions or conflicts during the vote counting and declaration of winners.
New Leaders Emerge in Maguindanao del Sur
Following the province’s division into two separate areas in 2022, Ali Midtimbang, 75, was elected as the first governor of Maguindanao del Sur. Expressing his gratitude, Midtimbang said, “Nagpasalamat ako talaga sa mga taong nag-suporta pati yung hindi pa nag-suporta sa akin pinasalamatan ko pa rin na wala naman gulo sa time of election namin.” (I’m thankful to my supporters and even to those who did not support me because everything was peaceful in this election.)
Meanwhile, his running mate, Ustadz Hisham Nando, won the position of vice governor. Their leadership marks a new chapter for Maguindanao del Sur as it moves forward with stability and peace.
For more updates on regional developments and elections, visit Filipinokami.com.