Inquirer information
MANILA, Philippines — An election officer in Lanao del Norte was “brutally killed” on Monday in obvious poll-related violence, in keeping with the Fee on Elections (Comelec).
In an announcement, the Comelec “condemns within the strongest phrases the brutal killing” of the performing election officer recognized as Mark Orlando Q. Vallecer II who was slain in Salvador city.
Vallecer’s killing, the ballot physique mentioned, is “not solely a criminal offense towards a public servant however an assault on democracy itself”.
READ: Communal violence rises in BARMM as polls close to
The Comelec additionally mentioned: “We mourn the lack of a colleague who served with braveness and integrity, and we lengthen our deepest condolences to his household and family members. The Fee stays steadfast in its mission to uphold free, truthful, and peaceable elections. Violence is not going to deter us, and people who search to hurt democracy will face the total drive of justice.”
Article continues after this commercial
READ: Village guard killed, 6 damage in Shariff Aguak COC submitting violence
Article continues after this commercial
Whereas particulars are nonetheless skinny about this, Comelec mentioned measures are being undertaken to expedite the investigation.
Lanao del Norte is a part of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Area in Muslim Mindanao (BARRM), which can see the first-ever parliamentary polls subsequent yr.
Deadly election-related violence have been reported within the BARRM area in earlier months.
In October, a village watchman was killed and 6 others have been injured throughout a violent commotion close to the municipal corridor of Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur as rival political supporters exchanged gunfire.
“As we strategy the upcoming elections, we name on candidates, supporters, and the general public to reject violence and intimidation. True management is earned by means of respect, belief, and principled competitors, not concern and coercion,” Comelec mentioned.