2 dead in 7 suspected election-related incidents

Two individuals have been reported dead in seven suspected election-related incidents (ERIs) leading up to the May 12 polls, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

The PNP spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, stated that the incidents occurred across different regions, with four in Western Visayas and one each in Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, and Soccsksargen.

Two of the incidents, one in Soccsksargen and another in Ilocos Region, resulted in the deaths of a municipal councilor and a strong supporter of a councilor candidate.

In Western Visayas, one of the ERIs involved a vehicular accident that included an incumbent mayor.

PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has instructed local investigators to promptly validate if these incidents can be officially classified as poll-related.

Commanders are urged to expedite their findings and recommendations regarding the classification of these incidents.

An incident is considered a suspected ERI if it takes place during the election period, from January 12 to June 11, and involves political candidates, their families, relatives, or close supporters.