Buluan, Maguindanao del Sur – May 12, 2025 — In a significant move to safeguard the integrity of the elections, security forces intercepted 64 suspected flying voters early Monday morning in Buluan, Maguindanao del Sur, uncovering deadly weapons and explosives in their possession.
At around 6:45 AM, a joint team composed of the 43rd Special Action Company of the PNP-SAF, 2nd Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Mobile Force Company (MDSPMFC), Buluan Municipal Police Station, Provincial Intelligence Unit of MDSPPO, and the 38th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army responded to a disturbance along the National Highway in Poblacion, Buluan.
Upon verification, the 64 individuals were confirmed to be non-residents of Buluan, raising suspicions of electoral fraud. A subsequent search of their belongings resulted in the confiscation of two hand grenades and several deadly weapons.
Police Regional Office Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR) Regional Director, PBGEN Romeo J. Macapaz, lauded the rapid response of law enforcement units, highlighting the significance of the operation.
“This operation reflects our commitment to ensuring a safe, fair, and credible electoral process. The presence of explosives and weapons among suspected flying voters is a serious threat that we will never tolerate,” said Macapaz.
He added that the police action aligns with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to maintain peace and order throughout the national and local elections.
“We are guided by the clear instruction of our President and the leadership of the PNP to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing any potential threats to the democratic process,” he added.
Earlier, PNP Chief PGEN Rommel Francisco D. Marbil ordered all police units to intensify anti-criminality efforts and strengthen coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to secure voting precincts and nearby areas.
Authorities are currently investigating the origin and possible affiliations of the intercepted group. Charges related to election offenses, illegal possession of explosives, and other criminal violations are being prepared.
Security forces in the region remain on heightened alert to deter similar incidents and ensure that the right to vote is protected from coercion and manipulation.