At least 80 percent of Maguindanao voters showed up in what the Philippine National Police (PNP) described as peaceful and orderly conduct of plebiscite on Saturday, Sept. 17.
The plebiscite was based on the proposal to divide Maguindanao, with 36 municipalities, into two provinces.
PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin, Jr. said that they have long prepared for the plebiscite with the Commission on Elections and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
"The election paraphernalia was received as scheduled, polling precincts opened on time, and there was no plebiscite-related incidents reported. Security processes and protocols were organized, and anti-Covid protocols and efforts are still enforced and observed," said Azurin.
He said a total of ,377 PNP personnel were deployed for election duties in today’s plebiscite, with 1,116 deployed in 461 polling centers where 814,790 registered voters were expected to cast their votes.
"A sizable number of police personnel was also detailed to provide security to convoys transporting election materials, security at the provincial capitol, municipal hubs, provincial treasurer’s office, and 20 mobile checkpoints around the province," said Azurin.
Some 600 other police personnel were deployed for civil disturbance management, quick response team, reactionary standby support force, investigation covert security, and implementation of minimum public health standards.