The decision of the Commission on Elections to place La Libertad and Guihulngan City under the Red category ahead of the May 12 midterm elections is a sobering reminder of the persistent security challenges in Negros Oriental.
The reason for the reclassification of these two LGUs from Orange to Red is due to armed threats.
The recent burning of heavy equipment in La Libertad, reportedly perpetrated by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army, underscores the vulnerability of certain areas to insurgent-related violence.
On the other hand, Guihulngan City has long been a hotspot for armed conflict, and its classification under the highest security alert serves as a call for heightened vigilance and proactive measures.
Comelec’s tiered classification system—ranging from green (peaceful) to yellow (history of election-related incidents), orange (serious armed threats), and red (severe security risks)—is a crucial mechanism for prioritizing security efforts.
The inclusion of La Libertad and Guihulngan in the Red category, along with 22 areas under yellow, and one under orange, signals the need for an intensified presence of security forces in these locations.
Beyond government interventions, community participation plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and order. Local leaders, civil society groups, and the citizens must remain vigilant, and report any suspicious activities. The electorate should not be swayed by intimidation or violence but instead exercise their right to vote freely and fairly.
The future of Negros Oriental depends on the credibility of its elections, and the stability of its communities. Authorities must remain steadfast in their duty to protect the people, and the public must stand firm in their commitment to democracy.
Only through collective action can we achieve a secure, transparent, and violence-free election.
