Comelec now in control of Maguindanao town over poll violence

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is now in full control and supervision over law enforcement and local officials in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte after placing the town under its control because of poll-related violence.

“The declaration is effective today,” Comelec Chairman George Garcia announced in a press conference on Friday, April 4.

The Comelec is empowered by the Constitution and relevant laws to place any political division, subdivision, unit, or area under its immediate and direct control - including its officials, law enforcement, and military personnel - as an extreme measure to ensure orderly elections.

For Datu Odin Sinsuat, Garcia said the commission will first assess the situation to determine the extent of its control and appoint an administrator in the coming days.

“No substantial changes will happen sa Datu Odin Sinsuat. Ang sinasabi lang namin readiness. Anytime pwede naming gamitin yung reserve authority na iyan [We are just communicating readiness. We can tap that reserve authority anytime],” Garcia explained.

He added that while a full takeover of the local government unit is possible, the commission may also opt to simply augment security forces, depending on the results of its assessment.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have pledged full support to secure the area.

The declaration follows a spate of violent incidents in Datu Odin Sinsuat, including the killing of an election officer and her husband in March, and that of a candidate’s lawyer and her fiancé.

Meanwhile, the PNP and AFP affirmed their readiness to address any threat to peace and order ahead of the May 12 midterm elections.