TACLOBAN CITY – Calbayog City Mayor Raymund Uy announced on Friday, October 13, that only 43 barangays in the city remain as areas of grave concern in the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on October 30.

UY (FB)

The Philippine National Police in Calbayog had earlier declared 60 out of 157 barangays as areas of grave concern but reduced the number to 43 after further verification.

Uy said out of the 43 barangays, 24 have unopposed candidates, which is not a cause of concern compared to the previous elections. Fifty barangays in Calbayog also have unopposed candidates.

"I was initially shocked with the number. However, the parameters were explained to me by the chief of police in coming up with the areas of grave concern," he said.

These 43 barangays under the red category might warrant Commission on Elections control.

The 17 barangays were downgraded to orange or areas of immediate concern where there is a serious armed threat. Fourteen barangays in Calbayog were earlier listed under the orange category.

"We are in close coordination with the PNP and we are ready to support them with their needs,” Uy said.

Uy added that the city government recently purchased four patrol cars that will boost police presence in the barangays.

"The barangay elections are non-partisan. We have recently conducted a covenant signing calling the candidates to remain calm and ensure fair play in their barangays."