PNP: Suspected cases of poll-related violence, other incidents jump to 39

MANILA, Philippines — Violent and other incidents believed to be connected to the 2023 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections on Monday climbed to 39, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Tuesday. 

Meanwhile, the number of validated election-related incidents remains at 35, according to PNP data.

PNP spokesperson and Public Information Office chief Col. Jean Fajardo reported that the suspected election-related incidents were monitored from 12 a.m. on October 30 until 12 a.m. on October 31. 

Two of the suspected cases were reported in Metro Manila, one each in Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Central Visayas, Soccsksargen, and Cordillera Administrative Region, six in Calabarzon, two each in Mimaropa, Bicol region, Western Visayas, and Eastern Visayas. 

The reported incidents are shooting incidents,  violation of the Omnibus Election Code, suicide, ballot snatching,  grave threat, hacking, harassment, light threats, malicious mischief, mauling, physical injuries, unjust vexation, illegal campaigning and vote-buying or selling.

Of the 39 suspected cases, two occurred in barangays under the red category or areas of grave concern; another two occurred in places under orange category (serious threats from local armed groups and communist terrorist organizations)  seven under the yellow category ( with recorded election-related incidents during the two previous elections) and 28 under green category (safe from any security threats.)