Comelec Reports Most Peaceful Mid-Term Elections Amid Reduced Violence

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The May 12, 2025, mid-term polls in the Philippines have been marked by the lowest levels of election-related violence in recent years, according to Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia. Despite 44 incidents of election-related violence reported, this figure represents a significant reduction compared to 128 incidents in 2019 and roughly 120 in 2022, establishing this election as the most peaceful of the past three cycles, based on these metrics.

Garcia acknowledged this improvement but emphasized the need for continued vigilance and reform, stating, "An election marred by violence is to us not acceptable as a conduct of election. There's still a lot of things to be done."

Additionally, 34 areas have been classified under the red category, which is fewer than previous elections. This designation indicates regions with significant security concerns but reflects a downward trend in such areas compared to previous polls.

In terms of equipment functionality, the Comelec replaced a total of 311 Automated Counting Machines (ACMs) during the election. This is a substantial improvement from 2022, where 2,500 machines required replacement in the initial voting hours. Garcia noted, "If it's 311, compared to our 2,500 on the actual election day in 2022, that’s significantly smaller." He explained that the replacements were proactive measures, ensuring seamless operations by following efficient protocols.

The voting process was further streamlined by eliminating issues experienced in the final testing and sealing of machines this year, unlike in 2022, when 2,000 machines faced problems.

Regarding election returns, Comelec's website reported that 81.55% of local Election Returns (ERs) have already been received, with 76,160 ERs submitted out of the 93,387 expected. In contrast, 48.76% of national returns have been received, with 118 out of 242 expected poll returns accounted for.

While these improvements offer a positive outlook, the Comelec acknowledges that the journey towards perfecting the electoral process continues, underscoring the need for ongoing enhancements and learning.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-05-13