Camp Olivas, City of San Fernando, Pampanga — The Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) held on October 30, 2023, in Central Luzon concluded with a remarkable level of peace and order, as no validated election-related incidents were reported by PRO3 and COMELEC during the entire election period from August 29 to the election day.
According to PBGen Jose Hidalgo Jr, only one individual was arrested for vote buying in Bulacan, while 52 individuals faced apprehension for violating the 48-hour liquor ban in various areas, including Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, and Zambales.
The strict enforcement of the Gun Ban, which was in effect throughout the election period and will continue until November 29, 2023, resulted in the confiscation of 287 assorted firearms and deadly weapons, leading to the arrest of 239 suspects.
All election returns and ballot boxes in Central Luzon have been safely transported to municipal treasurer’s offices, ensuring the integrity and security of the election process.
Hidalgo attributed the overall success of the BSKE to the coordinated efforts of COMELEC, PNP, and AFP through the Regional Joint Security Coordinating Center, in collaboration with various partner agencies. These combined efforts were aimed at guaranteeing the safety, security, and smooth execution of this essential democratic exercise.
He also emphasized the ongoing commitment of law enforcement, stating, “We still have around 4,000 personnel deployed to maintain peace and order in cemeteries and columbaria as we commemorate our traditional All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day. I remind everyone that bringing sharp objects and alcoholic beverages inside cemeteries is strictly prohibited. I am asking everyone to adhere to all the rules and regulations to ensure a peaceful, orderly, and meaningful observance of Undas.”
