The Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting Command Center in Sampaloc, Manila (PNA photo by Kris M. Crismundo)
The Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) stated on Monday that the 2025 midterm elections were “slightly more peaceful” than previous polls, despite incidents of violence and fatalities reported in Mindanao.
During a press briefing held at the PPCRV Command Center, spokesperson Ana Singson noted that while certain areas still experienced troubling events, early observations indicate fewer violent disruptions compared to the 2022 and 2019 elections.
“Based on qualitative assessments so far — pending final reports — it appears this election was conducted in a somewhat more peaceful manner,” Singson said.
She highlighted Mindanao as a particular area of concern but noted a decrease in violent incidents and fatalities. “There were fewer reports of violence, and the number of deaths was either the same or slightly lower,” she added.
In Sinsuat, Basilan, four individuals were reportedly killed, with several others injured. The situation escalated to such a degree that PPCRV was forced to withdraw its volunteers for their safety — only the second time in the organization’s history such a decision was made.
“Our volunteers were simply too afraid to remain,” Singson explained. “We had to ask them to leave to ensure their safety.”
Meanwhile, in Cotabato, some members of the electoral board stepped down due to security fears. As a result, armed military personnel had to assume their responsibilities.
“It’s deeply unfortunate that we continue to see lives lost during the electoral process,” Singson said. “We still hope for the day when we can truly declare an election peaceful.”