THE Cebu Provincial Board (PB) approved a resolution in last Monday’s session asking the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to place the province’s 4th district under its control.
PB Member Sun Shimura, who authored the resolution, cited as basis for his request the strafing of the home of barangay councilman Nathaniel Cortez in Barangay Libjo, Tabogon town at midnight of last Saturday.
Police investigation revealed that the incident is not entirely election-related. But Shimura was adamant that it should not be taken lightly.
“Since there is already a gun ban, there is also a need to call on the Comelec and have them explain why there are still guns being used and to ensure peace and order,” he said.
Cebu’s 4th district includes Bogo City and the towns of Tabuelan, San Remigio, Medellin, Daanbantayan, Sta. Fe, Bantayan, Madridejos, and Tabogon.
Acting Mandaue City Comelec officer Ferdinand Gujilde clarified that resolutions are merely persuasive in nature and not binding on the Comelec. He said one of the requirements to placing an area under Comelec control is the verified presence of a serious armed threat.
“Even if there is armed threat, if it’s not serious, it might not qualify you to be placed under Comelec control,” Gujilde said.
He said election hotspots have a history of political violence and the presence of armed men.
He said the Provincial Joint Security Council (PJSC) composed of officials from the Comelec, police and military will determine whether or not to place an area under Comelec control.
Rep. Benhur Salimbangon of Cebu’s 4th district said it is up to the Comelec to decide whether or not to place the district under its control.