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COTABATO CITY—Balloting was delayed in many voting centers of this city after the police imposed strict regulations on the entry of voters into polling places.
This followed the tensions among supporters of mayoral aspirants Bruce Matabalao and reelectionist Cynthia Guiani-Sayada.
Police were also taking extra measures Sunday night after the blast in Datu Unsay town, Maguindanao, that left eight persons hurt.
Voting started around 7 a.m. in most precincts, with a one-hour delay.
Persons carrying bags, especially backpacks, were subjected to thorough inspection before being allowed entry into a school compound to line for ballots.
The Commission on Elections had drafted the services of police officers to replace teachers as members of electoral boards.