The Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) have been generally peaceful and orderly based on the preliminary observation of the National Citizens' Movement for Free Elections (Namfrel).

Namfrel has been accredited by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) as the citizens' arm for the 2023 BSKE, and for these electoral exercises, Namfrel chapters have deployed teams of volunteers to observe the election day procedures in the voting centers.
 
In a statement Monday, Oct. 30, Namfrel observed that the Electoral Boards (EBs) appeared well-prepared in general, citing their systematic handling of the process inside the polling places. 

Namfrel reported that voting started on time at 7 a.m., with members of the EBs as well as the election materials to be used rendered complete. While observers from all over the country reported the usual cases of voters being unable to find their names on the lists, observers also cited the importance and usefulness of the Comelec's Precinct Finder as well as the Voter Assistance Desks (VADs) in facilitating the conduct of the voting process.

Namfrel observers reported that in most voting centers observed so far, there has been a high turnout of voters, especially among senior citizens who turned up early outside voting centers prior to the start of voting. 

In general, regular voters outnumbered SK voters, reflecting the fact that there were more regular-aged voters registered than SK voters. In places with low turnout of voters this morning, Namfrel observers still held out hope that the numbers may increase as the day progresses. 

In Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, Namfrel volunteers said turnout was low early this morning due to rainy weather. 

In Zamboanga City, observers reported that some voters who were daily wage earners want to vote after work.

In Dasmariñas Elementary School in Cavite where the automated election system is being pilot-tested for the BSKE, Namfrel observers reported that there has been no issues so far, aside from some confusion among the members of the EB as to the start of voting. But voting still started on time.

In Al-Barka, Basilan, Namfrel observers reported that Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) personnel had been requested by members of the EBs to be present at the entrance to polling places to provide them security. In Malaig Elementary School in Balindong, Lanao del Sur, Namfrel observers reported that soldiers equipped with tasers were stationed at polling places to maintain peace and order.

In Cotabato City, Namfrel observers reported that about 15 percent of EBs in Vilo Central Elementary School resigned the day before election day due to concerns regarding their security, especially during the counting. The EBs were replaced by PNP personnel.

In Cotabato City, in Kimpo Elementary School, Namfrel observers were barred by local police from entering the voting center to observe the elections. The observers were told that no media or external observers were to be permitted inside.

Namfrel is currently verifying with its Namfrel chapters other incidents reported in the media that appear to be election-related. Namfrel will include them in forthcoming updates once verified by their volunteers on the ground.

The poll watchdog will continue to gather observations throughout the day. Voting was set to end at 3 p.m., and counting and canvassing of votes will commence after that. 

Namfrel will be submitting a final report to the Comelec on the findings of the observation, identifying areas that could be further strengthened, and recommending measures to help ensure the conduct of safer and more efficient electoral exercises.