In preparation for the upcoming May elections, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has identified Guihulngan City and Basay town as critical election hotspots in Negros Oriental due to past incidents of violence and fierce political rivalries. Guihulngan City is categorized under the red level, the highest risk category, following the assassination of a candidate in previous elections. Basay town is placed in the orange category after experiencing political tensions and a shooting during the 2022 elections. The rest of the province’s 23 cities and municipalities fall into the yellow category, indicating a moderate risk level, as stated by Comelec-Negros Oriental supervisor Eddie Aba during a unity walk, interfaith prayer, and peace covenant signing at the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office. The event saw participation from election officials, law enforcement, and candidates, who were briefed on election laws and committed to ensuring peaceful and orderly elections. Notable absentees included Governor Manuel Sagarbarria, who is running in the upcoming election, and former governor Pryde Henry Teves. Dumaguete Mayor Felipe Antonio Remollo was also absent, but his opponent for the second congressional district seat, Vice Mayor Maria Isabel Sagarbarria, attended. Candidates from the third district, including Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo and Janice Teves-Gaston, were present. The peace covenant was signed by candidates for vice governor and board members alongside officials from Comelec, the Philippine National Police, the Philippine Army, other uniformed services, religious leaders, and the Diocesan Electoral Board.
