ZAMBOANGA CITY – Chaos erupted in multiple venues across the city as a crowd surge during an alleged political party’s watcher orientation led to the deaths of two senior citizens and injuries to several others.
According to the Zamboanga City Medical Center, at least 12 individuals were rushed to the hospital starting noon yesterday, following a stampede that occurred during the supposed orientation sessions for poll watchers of an unnamed political party. The sessions were reportedly held in several venues, including hotels and private establishments.
Witnesses and local officials said the massive turnout—fueled by rumors of a monetary payout—overwhelmed organizers. Some attendees, many of whom were elderly and even children, collapsed from exhaustion, high blood pressure, or injuries sustained in the chaos.
Among the casualties were an 80-year-old woman and a 65-year-old man, both of whom reportedly fainted on-site and could not be revived. Another victim, a 69-year-old woman, remains under medical care, while the others have been discharged and sent home.
COMELEC Zamboanga District II Election Officer Atty. Jan Christian Babiera stated in an interview that the unnamed political party claimed it was merely conducting watcher orientation. However, the turnout far exceeded expectations, with long queues forming and some people bringing their children and elderly family members.
Public frustration and confusion escalated further today, as another crowd gathered in the Terracota area of Barangay Tumaga amid continued rumors of cash distribution for watchers. This prompted immediate intervention by the Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO) and COMELEC, who acted swiftly to disperse the crowd and prevent another stampede.
City Police Director P/Col Fidel Fortaleza Jr. confirmed that authorities were deployed to manage the situation and maintain order. He and Atty. Babiera appealed to the public to stay vigilant and avoid being misled by false information spreading online.
The tragic event has raised concerns about the conduct of political activities in the run-up to the May 12 National and Local Elections. Critics warn that the mixture of misinformation, inadequate planning, and the lure of financial incentives can pose real dangers to public safety.
As the city mourns its loss, questions remain: Are voters being empowered, or are they being exploited in the name of politics?