The Commission on Elections (Comelec) said Thursday, 24 April, that placing Cagayan under its control is still “premature.”

Comelec Chairperson George Garcia made the remark after Rizal, Cagayan, was shot dead on Wednesday night, 23 April, during a campaign rally.

"We are waiting for the official report of the Philippine National Police. We are looking at which category they are currently in and we can increase the category from orange to red," Garcia said in a radio interview.

"At the same time, if we need to add more forces, we will immediately," he added.

Garcia reiterated that it is still premature to declare them under Comelec control.

Ruma was reportedly attacked in Barangay Illuru Sur at around 9:00 PM He was rushed to a hospital where he was declared dead on arrival, according to authorities.

The suspected shooter, who remains at large, managed to escape after the incident. Authorities set up high-risk checkpoints and are currently conducting hot-pursuit operations.

Two individuals who attended the campaign rally were also injured in the attack but are in stable condition.

The poll body has declared two areas in the country under its control: Buluan, Maguindanao del Sur, and Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao del Norte, ahead of the 12 May polls due to reported incidents of violence in the towns.

Under Comelec control, the poll body will have immediate and direct control and supervision over national and local offices and employees, as well as full control and supervision over all national and local law-enforcement agencies.