The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is ramping up security measures as they anticipate a rise in election-related violence following the start of the 45-day campaign period for local candidates on 28 March 2025.

In a radio interview, Comelec Chairperson Erwin Garcia assured the public that the poll body is closely coordinating with the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and other concerned agencies to maintain peace and order during the election period.

"'Yung mga election officer namin sa Maguindanao, binigyan na namin ng tig-dalawang security personnel (Our election officers in Maguindanao have each been assigned two security personnel,)" Garcia said, emphasizing the need for heightened security in historically volatile areas.

For red (with serious threat of election-related violence) and orange (with serious armed threats from rebel factions) category areas, Comelec has deployed additional law enforcement personnel and established more checkpoints to deter potential violence.

Garcia also noted that Comelec is awaiting recommendations from the AFP, PNP, and local election officials regarding whether to place Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao under Comelec control.

“Mukhang ang magiging rekomendasyon ay hindi lang 'yung munisipyo kundi buong probinsiya ang ilagay sa Comelec control (It looks like the recommendation will be to place not just the municipality but the entire province under Comelec control.,)” he said.