The Philippine National Police (PNP) disclosed that two individuals lost their lives in seven incidents suspected to be linked to the upcoming elections on May 12. Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, who serves as both the PNP spokesperson and the Central Luzon police chief, shared these details during a press conference at Camp Crame. The incidents were spread across different regions, with four occurring in Western Visayas, and one each in Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, and Soccsksargen. Notably, the incidents in Soccsksargen and Ilocos Region resulted in the deaths of a municipal councilor and a supporter of a councilor candidate, respectively. Additionally, a vehicular accident involving an incumbent mayor was reported in Western Visayas. PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has instructed local investigators to swiftly determine if these incidents are indeed election-related. Fajardo emphasized that commanders should not delay in classifying these incidents as election-related if they occur between January 12 and June 11 and involve political figures or their close associates. In related news, the PNP reported 379 gun ban violations and the confiscation of 383 firearms, with most violators being civilians, followed by security guards, law enforcement members, and a government official. The gun ban, enforced through Comelec checkpoints, is in effect from January 12 to June 11, as per Comelec Resolution No. 10999. Only individuals with a certificate of authority from the Committee on the Ban on Firearms and Security Concerns are allowed to carry firearms outside their homes or businesses during this period. The campaign period for senators and party-list representatives will run from February 11 to May 10, while local candidates can campaign from March 28 to May 10.
Philippine National Police Reports Two Fatalities in Seven Suspected Election-Related Incidents
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