The midterm elections in Western Visayas are off to a mostly peaceful start, but police are currently looking into two separate incidents that may involve violations of election rules.

Lt. Colonel Arnel Solis, spokesperson for the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6), said that as of midday, no major election-related violence had been reported.

“So far, the conduct of the elections has been smooth and orderly. We’ve only recorded two isolated cases — one each in Aklan and Capiz,” he said in an interview.

In Madalag, Aklan, a 56-year-old man was arrested on Sunday, May 11, at a checkpoint in Barangay Poblacion carrying a bag filled with envelopes of cash — amounting to P21,900 — and campaign materials.

Authorities suspect the money may have been intended for vote-buying.

“This is an election offense. When found guilty of this violation, it entails imprisonment and other consequences,” Solis said.

Meanwhile, in Mambusao, Capiz, a 57-year-old security guard was caught taking a photo of his completed ballot — a clear breach of election laws.

He was apprehended upon the complaint of the Electoral Board.

The two suspects are in the custodial facilities of the local police stations, pending the filing of appropriate charges.

Despite the incidents, police said the region remains calm, with all precincts receiving their election materials on time. PRO-6 continues to monitor the situation, urging the public to stay vigilant and report anything suspicious.

“We want voters to feel safe and confident. We’ll keep doing our part to make sure their voices are heard, fairly and freely,” Solis added. (PNA)