As the May 12 midterm elections approach, Dagupan City is nearly fully prepared—including inside the city jail.

A total of 429 Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at BJMP Dagupan are set to cast their votes, as the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) pushes for an inclusive and peaceful election.

On May 8, COMELEC conducted an orientation for teachers assigned as Electoral Board members, especially those deployed to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).

“Basically 98% ready na tayo. Today magsasagawa tayo ng briefing at orientation para doon sa mga teachers na naka-assign sa BJMP,” Atty. Michael Franks Sarmiento, Dagupan City Election Officer, said.

COMELEC also confirmed the successful final testing and sealing of 163 Automated Counting Machines (ACMs) that will be used across 30 voting centers in the city. Officials expect smooth operations on election day.

A liquor ban will be enforced from May 11 until election day.

“Bawal po tayong magtinda o bumili ng alcoholic beverage from May 11 to May 12,” Sarmiento said.

The police assured they will enforce the rule strictly.

“Iikot po ang ating kapulisan para i-ensure natin na implemented po ito, fully implemented ang liquor ban,” PCapt. Shayne Daciego, Dagupan City PNP spokesperson, said.

So far, no reports of vote-buying or election-related violence have surfaced in the city. Still, COMELEC urged candidates and supporters to campaign peacefully.

“Nakikiusap tayo sa ating mga kandidato at supporters including campaign personnel na maging mahinahon. Let’s focus sa mga advocacy na gusto nating ilatag,” Sarmiento said.