The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has decided not to place the entire province of Maguindanao del Norte under its control, focusing instead on the municipality of Datu Odin Sinsuat.
Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia said it would be unfair to municipalities without election-related violence to be subjected to heightened restrictions.
The decision follows the ambush and killing of the town’s election officer, Maceda Abo, and her husband, prompting increased security measures, including more checkpoints and law enforcement presence.
Garcia also revealed that two other areas—one in Northern Luzon and another in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region—are being considered for Comelec control.
The move aligns with Comelec Resolution 10757, which sets criteria for placing areas under election control due to intense political rivalry or armed threats.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 4, 2025
