Voting proceeded peacefully across Mindanao’s Davao and Caraga regions on Monday, with election and police officials reporting no poll-related incidents, aside from minor logistical challenges.
Police Regional Office-13 Director Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano inspected precincts with Commission on Elections-Caraga officials Edwin Cadungog and Geraldine Samson.
“Voters are casting ballots without fear of violence,” Abrahano said during the morning press conference, noting that a pre-dawn shooting in Surigao del Norte was unrelated to the elections.
The region’s 1.9 million registered voters spread across 1,363 voting centers encountered typical first-day issues like precinct location confusion, but were quickly resolved by election staff.
Neighboring Davao de Oro province also received positive assessment from Governor Dorothy Gonzaga.
“The voting process was smooth with no ACM (automated counting machine) problems or violence,” Gonzaga said, adding that she remained alert to vote-buying reports while hoping for fair results.
In Davao del Norte, gubernatorial candidate and outgoing 2nd District Rep. Alan Dujali urged reconciliation after after casting his ballot.
“This is the time to heal, unify, and believe in the process. The real work begins post-election — helping Dabaonons,” he said.
The Caraga police deployed officers to 1,363 voting centers while Davao provinces reported full compliance with election protocols. (PNA)