WV Poll ‘Hotspots’ Still Under Review

By Jennifer P. Rendon

The Regional Joint Security Control Center (RJSCC) in Western Visayas has yet to finalize its list of election areas of concern, commonly referred to as election hotspots, for the May 12, 2025, midterm polls.

The RJSCC, chaired by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) with the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) as members, is still evaluating security risks in the region.

Atty. Dennis Ausan, Comelec-6 regional election director, clarified this during a press conference, following earlier reports naming 17 towns and cities as areas of concern.

Categories of Election Concern

The preliminary list categorized Calinog in Iloilo as the only area under the “Red” category, denoting a grave concern.

Under the “Yellow” category, which signifies an area of concern, were Tobias Fornier in Antique; President Roxas in Capiz; Ajuy, Lemery, and San Dionisio in Iloilo; and Isabela and San Enrique in Negros Occidental.

The “Orange” category, or areas of immediate concern, included Tapaz in Capiz; Janiuay, Leon, Maasin, San Joaquin, and Badiangan in Iloilo; and Calatrava, Cauayan, and Sipalay City in Negros Occidental.

“Green” areas, meanwhile, were deemed relatively peaceful and orderly.

Ausan explained that the RJSCC is still conducting workshops, evaluations, and data sharing among its member agencies to refine the list.

“This is a work in progress. Before we place an area under a specific category, it must meet established parameters,” he said.

These parameters include the presence of intense partisan political rivalry, the possible use of partisan armed groups by candidates, and threats posed by domestic terror groups such as the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), Maute Group, Abu Sayyaf Group, or similar groups as identified by competent authorities.

Ausan stated that the final list is expected to be released a few weeks before Election Day to guide the security planning process.

“We must align and conform to the specific needs of each locality,” he added.

Downgrading Calinog’s Risk Level

Calinog was categorized as “Red” due to a series of encounters in its hinterland villages during the latter half of 2024.

Brigadier General Michael Samson, commander of the Philippine Army’s 301st Infantry Brigade, reported that these encounters resulted in the neutralization of several top-ranking New People’s Army (NPA) leaders and the dismantling of Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay’s Central Front.

Based on the current security situation, Samson suggested that Calinog’s designation should be downgraded to “Yellow.”

“If the basis is the presence of the communist terrorist group, Calinog should be downgraded. Wala ng NPA that may cause a threat,” Samson said.

The RJSCC’s final evaluation will determine security measures to be implemented in the lead-up to the midterm elections. The PNP, AFP, and other stakeholders are committed to ensuring peaceful and orderly polls across Western Visayas.