103 towns in BARMM designated as "areas of concern" for 2025 midterm polls

The announcement, made Wednesday by Comelec-BARMM Director Ray Sumalipao, classified these areas based on security threats and past election-related violence.

 

Red Alert: High Risk Areas

 

Thirty-two towns are categorized as "red," indicating serious armed threats and a history of election-related incidents. These areas are primarily concentrated in the provinces of Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and Lanao del Sur.

 

Orange and Yellow: Elevated Risk

 

An additional 49 towns fall under the "yellow" category, signifying a history of election-related incidents, while 22 towns are classified as "orange," indicating serious armed threats.

 

Green Zones: Safe Havens

 

Twenty-one towns in the region remain under the "green" category, signifying no known election-related security concerns.  The region's three component cities, Cotabato, Marawi, and Lamitan, are also included in this category.

 

Peacebuilding Initiatives

 

Sumalipao emphasized that the list is subject to change based on ongoing assessments and evaluations. The Comelec-BARMM is actively collaborating with security forces and peacebuilding organizations to reduce these risks.

 

The Philippine Army's 6th Infantry Division is actively promoting peaceful elections by organizing political candidate forums, where participants have signed peace covenants.

 

Preparedness and Contingency Plans

 

The Comelec-BARMM is also implementing preparedness measures, including training police officers to serve as electoral board members if teachers withdraw due to threats or health concerns.

 

"We are committed to conducting a safe and credible election in the BARMM,” Sumalipao assured, "and will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful and successful electoral process."