Comelec, OCD sign MOA for election preparedness amid Mt. Kanlaon eruption

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) assured residents of Negros Occidental and Oriental that the May 12 midterm elections will proceed as scheduled despite the ongoing eruption of Mt. Kanlaon.

Comelec chairman George Garcia emphasized the commitment to ensure all registered voters can cast their ballots, stating there would be no failure or postponement of elections.

The Comelec signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on Thursday, May 1, formalizing joint initiatives for disaster preparedness during the elections, including early voting privileges and possible deputation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Comelec data shows that 24,362 registered voters in Negros Occidental and Oriental are affected under Alert Level 3, with Murcia town having the highest number at 6,871. In a worst-case scenario or an Alert Level 4 eruption, up to 113,461 registered voters will be relocated.

Garcia visited an evacuation center in La Carlota City to inspect local contingency plans and lead voter education efforts among internally displaced persons (IDPs), including a demonstration of the Automated Counting Machine (ACM).

The MOA outlines provisions for mapping emergency routes and establishing an Incident Command Post (ICP) to enhance disaster response, ensuring inclusive participation in the democratic process.

Nepomuceno expressed satisfaction with the partnership, emphasizing that it ensures democracy prevails even in times of crisis.