COTABATO, Philippines — Security forces heightened their presence in Cotabato City as the Commission on Elections (Comelec) began accepting certificates of candidacy (COC) on Tuesday, October 1.
The city, which is the seat of the regional government of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), saw increased vigilance along a key thoroughfare leading to election offices.
Marine and police units closed one lane of Governor Gutierrez Avenue, a one-kilometer stretch that leads to the Bangsamoro Government Center (BGC), where Comelec offices are located. Authorities said the partial closure would remain in effect until October 8.
Comelec officials, however, assured the public that one lane would remain open for individuals submitting COCs for non-BARMM regional positions.
For those running for positions in the BARMM regional parliament, the Comelec has moved the period for COC filing to November 4 to 9.
Cotabato City Election Officer Norpaisa Paglala-Manduyog said the decision was made following recommendations from various security forces to ensure a smooth filing process in anticipation of huge crowds at the BGC. Candidates are expected to be accompanied by throngs of supporters.
“This time, supporters will not be allowed inside the BGC center; only the candidate’s vehicle and three companions will be permitted to enter the Comelec office,” Manduyog said.
The Comelec has also advised public utility vehicles to observe rerouting during the week-long COC filing to avoid heavy traffic congestion. Organized entry and exit points will be implemented for the candidates during the week.
The filing of COCs will take place at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex for the municipalities in the Special Geographic Area (SGA) of BARMM, as well as in Cotabato City.
The COC filing for Maguindanao del Norte will be conducted at the Comelec main office at the BGC compound.
Police and Marine forces have implemented security measures to prevent election-related violence in Cotabato City
Meanwhile, Police-BARMM director Brigadier General Prexy Tanggawohn said they will also proceed with deploying more troops to maintain security measures in Sulu province unless ordered otherwise. A recent Supreme Court (SC) ruling has excluded the province from BARMM. – Rappler.com