BARMM Elections Marred by Violence: 4 Dead, 19 Injured in Pre-Poll Incidents

MANILA, Philippines – At least four people were killed and 19 injured in a series of election-related violence incidents in Cotabato City ahead of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliamentary elections, Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia confirmed on Monday. Garcia said during a press conference on Monday afternoon that a shootout inside the Central Pilot Elementary School in Cotabato City killed one and injured three. Rappler journalists on the scene recorded parts of the shooting that started past 6 am Monday. The incident brings the total election-related deaths to 4 and injuries to 19. Three had died in a shootout between rival political supporters outside Datu Usman Mampen Elementary School in Cotabato City early Monday morning. The incident left 15 others wounded. Meanwhile, a man was critically injured in an explosion on the eve of the elections, Sunday night, September 13, in Barangay Kapimpilan in Mother Kalanganan, Cotabato City. Initial reports said the man, a resident of Poblacion 1, was believed to have been carrying an explosive device. Following Monday morning’s incident, the Philippine National Police in the region said investigation and pursuit operations were underway, and called on the public to “remain calm and vigilant, cooperate with authorities, and immediately report any suspicious activity or security concern." Election-monitoring group Legal Network for Truthful Elections also called for calm and respect for the democratic process. Cotabato City has since been placed under Comelec control. – Rappler.com