The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has recorded the highest number of election-related violence (ERVIs) incidents in the country, according to data from the Philippine National Police (PNP). As of Monday, 29 ERVI cases have been documented nationwide, with most incidents occurring in the region.
Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Erwin Garcia stated that the reported incidents were recorded from October 2023 to March 1, 2025. However, the data does not yet include recent cases in Abra and Lumba, Lanao del Sur.
Due to the rising violence, Garcia urged the PNP to reassess the security situation in BARMM to ensure a safe and orderly election. He emphasized the seriousness of the issue, particularly in Northern Mindanao, Maguindanao, and Cotabato City, where many victims are either incumbent officials or candidates for the upcoming elections.
With the official campaign period for local positions set to begin on March 28, tensions among candidates and their supporters are expected to escalate. Garcia warned that areas under the red category require immediate intervention to prevent further violence.
The Comelec assured the public that it continues to monitor the situation closely to maintain security and order before and during the elections. Authorities are coordinating efforts to mitigate potential threats and safeguard the democratic process in the affected areas.