ELECTIONS are not just a periodic ritual for nations. They are a testament to the will of the people, a reflection of a democratic society’s health. When that democratic exercise is marred by threats, it raises alarms that we must not ignore. The Regional Joint Security Control Center’s (RJSCC) announcement of 172 barangays in Western Visayas as election areas of concern is one such alarm.
The meticulous classification of areas into yellow, orange, and red categories, each signifying varying degrees of concern, is a sobering reminder of the challenges facing the upcoming village polls. More concerning is the revelation that the majority of these areas grapple with grave threats from communist rebels and are plagued by intense political rivalry. But it’s not just about election-related incidents but the underlying tension and violence that cast shadows over the integrity of the voting process. When people can’t vote without fear, can democracy truly function?
Furthermore, the presence of 3,879 barangays under the green category, or areas with no security concerns, is both reassuring and a grim indicator of the disparities within the region. Why is tranquility achievable in some barangays and not in others? The mere existence of such a stark contrast demands scrutiny.
The factors considered by the Commission on Elections for these classifications, from past election-related incidents to threats posed by the New People’s Army, point to both historical tensions and fresh challenges. As much as the classification system is helpful for targeted interventions, it’s equally a call for introspection on how these deep-rooted issues can be addressed beyond security measures.
It is commendable that efforts are underway to mitigate these concerns. The relentless operations by the Philippine Army against insurgency and the recent encounter in Jayubo, Lambunao, underscore the seriousness of these threats and the urgency of the response needed. However, combat is a reactive approach. A more lasting solution would be to address the root causes that foster such divisions and animosity.
The Police Regional Office 6’s assurance of adequate personnel deployment is heartening, but manpower is but one part of the puzzle. Efficient coordination, community involvement, and proactive measures are equally crucial.
While Maj. Gen. Marion R. Sison’s assertion that they are expecting more encounters and are well-prepared is reassuring to some degree, it also prompts a question: How did we get here? And more importantly, how can we ensure that every citizen can exercise their democratic right without fearing for their safety?
As the RJSCC continues its evaluations and prepares for the Oct. 30 polls, one hopes that the larger issues fueling these concerns are also being addressed. Only then can we truly champion a democracy that’s not just by the people and for the people, but also safe for every individual.
