Comelec eyes placing Daraga, Albay under its control after Batocabe slay

Commission on Elections (Comelec) spokesperson James Jimenez on Thursday said that the poll body considers placing Daraga town in Albay under its control, on possible grounds of an intense political rivalry after a mayoral candidate was slain by still unidentified men on Saturday.

"Comelec is considering placing the municipality of Daraga, Albay under Comelec control owing to the killing of Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Rodel Batocabe," Jimenez said at a press briefing.

"The fact na meron pang perpetrators na hindi pa identified, hindi pa nahuhuli, that has contributed to the atmosphere of anxiety na ngayon ay nararanasan nila sa Daraga," he added, saying that the concerned Comelec field officials in the town has also recommended the move.

Batocabe and his security detail were shot dead after a gift-giving event in Daraga on Saturday. The initial probe of the police, however, has yet to establish that the killing was politically motivated.

Jimenez said that the Comelec en banc has yet to study the situation and will also take into consideration the security assessment of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Comelec control would mean the poll body's immediate and direct supervision and control over all national and local officials, and law enforcement agencies in the municipality, the spokesperson said.

The aim was to temper intense political rivalries in the area and ensure the safety of the upcoming elections.

He said that the Comelec control, once given a go by the en banc, shall likely take effect in Daraga on January 13—the start of the election period and shall be effective until lifted.

Jimenez, however, said that the date may still change depending on the Comelec en banc's decision.

President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday urged the Comelec to put Daraga, Albay under Comelec's control. —NB, GMA News