Moises Padilla in NegOcc put under Comelec control over political rivalry, violence

Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez on Monday, May 6, 2019 shows an advanced copy of the Comelec resolution placing Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental under its control due to various incidents of violence. Tina Panganiban-Perez

The Commission on Elections has put the municipality of Moises Padilla in Negros Occidental under its control due to intense political rivalry and violence there, Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said Monday.

Jimenez made the confirmation by citing a Resolution issued by the Comelec en banc on Monday.

Per the Comelec Resolution, the move to put Moises Padilla under Comelec control was recommended by the Provincial Security Force of Negros Occidental.

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Oscar Albayalde earlier confirmed that the police had recommended the measure.

Other areas under Comelec control include Daraga City in Albay and Cotabato City.

Based on a Comelec resolution issued last January, being under the commission's control means that it “will take immediate and direct control and supervision over all national and local officials and employees required by law to perform duties and/or to comply with certain prohibitions relative to the conduct of the elections in the political division, subdivision, unit, or area concerned.”

The election period covers January 13 to June 12 this year. Election Day is on May 13. — BM, GMA News