Elections in Negros Island’s insurgency-affected areas will proceed as scheduled on May 12 despite recent clashes between government forces and rebels, an official said Monday, May 5.

Comelec-Negros Island Region Director Lionel Marco Castillano said the Philippine Army and police have intensified operations to prevent New People’s Army (NPA) disruptions.

“The encounters in Kabankalan and Guihulngan cities were proactive measures to ensure rebels don’t disturb peace and order,” Castillano said.

He said displaced residents in Guihulngan City have returned home, and voting centers remain secure.

One suspected rebel was killed in Guihulngan clashes last week, while seven died in a Kabankalan City encounter earlier.

Authorities in Cadiz City also arrested individuals for alleged extortion.

Castillano ordered hourly police checkpoints and heightened anti-criminality patrols.

Two soldiers will now be stationed inside voting centers in high-risk areas, a shift from past deployments outside. (PNA)