THE Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are watching ‘areas of concern’ including Negros Oriental and the Bangsamoro Administrative Region in relation to the October 30 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections.

Initial assessments show there are already 27 areas under the so-called ‘Red Category’ or places that are at most risk due to incidents of poll-related violence during previous elections; 232 are in the ‘Orange Category,’ 4,085 are in the ‘Yellow Category’ and 37,683 are in the Green Category.

‘Orange’ means areas where there are serious armed threats while ‘Red’ means areas of grave concern as they exhibit combined factors under the ‘Yellow’ category with serious armed threats that may warrant the motu proprio declaration of Comelec control.

The numbers are expected to change as the PNP, AFP, Philippine Coast Guard and the Commission on Elections are set to finalize the list on August 22.

PNP chief, General Benjamin C. Acorda Jr. said they are particularly watching areas known for its history of bitter political feuds, presence of lawless armed groups specifically the New People’s Army and partisan armed groups.

He added that police officers and men assigned in areas where their relatives are running for barangay or Sangguniang Kabataan posts will be temporarily transferred to other places.

On Tuesday, the PNP, the Comelec and the PCG reaffirmed their commitment to ensure the safety, integrity, and fairness of the October BSKE by signing a memorandum of agreement at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza in Manila.

Acorda, Comelec chairman George Erwin M. Garcia and PCG commander, Admiral Artemio M. Abu signed the agreement dedicated to upholding the democratic processes of the nation.

During the event, Garcia reminded the public that all public works projects would be prohibited from August 28, the first day of the filing of certificates of candidacy.

He added that all social services will also be banned from September 15, and all assistance to individuals in crisis situations (AICS) will be suspended from October 20 to 30. An exemption from the Comelec is needed for these activities to continue, he explained.

Garcia also announced three new projects that would be implemented during the BSKE, namely, mall voting in select areas, early voting for seniors, persons with disabilities, and the pregnant, and automated elections in three areas.

He added that local Comelec offices have identified alternative polling places for schools that were flooded due to recent typhoons.

The MOA signing underscored the critical role that the three agencies in safeguarding the elections, fostering transparency, and promoting public trust. The joint efforts of these agencies aim to create an environment conducive to fair competition among candidates, encouraging voter participation, and deterring any attempts at disrupting the electoral process, PNP Public Information Office chief, Brigadier Gen. Redrico A. Maranan said.

“The collaboration between Comelec, PNP, and PCG demonstrates our collective determination to ensure that the voice of every Filipino is heard through the ballot. By working together, we enhance the credibility of the elections and promote a strong democratic foundation,” said Garcia.

Acorda expressed his full support to the poll body’s efforts. “Our commitment to ensuring the security and orderliness of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections is unwavering.

Through our cooperation, we intend to maintain a safe environment for voters to exercise their right to vote freely,” he said.