CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines — As part of intensified security measures ahead of the May 12, 2025 National and Local Elections, the 8th Infantry Division (8ID), Philippine Army, has deployed additional military personnel to Sta. Margarita, Samar—an area tagged by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) as a “red category” hotspot due to its history of election-related violence and the presence of armed threats.
Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, Commander of the 8ID, led the inspection of deployed government forces in Sta. Margarita on Wednesday, joined by Brigadier General Efren Morados, Commander of the 803rd Infantry Brigade. Their visit was aimed at ensuring operational readiness and boosting the morale of troops assigned to secure the area.
In his address to the troops, Maj. Gen. Orio underscored the military’s critical role in ensuring a peaceful and credible electoral process.
“This coming election, the people are counting on us to maintain peace and order so they can exercise their right to vote without fear or disruption,” he said.
“I urge you to carry out your duty with integrity and prevent those who seek to undermine this historic event in our democracy.”
He emphasized the importance of safeguarding not just voters, but also the electoral boards, ballots, and other poll materials.
According to Major Jefferson Mariano, Chief of the Division Public Affairs Office, the deployment is part of a coordinated security plan with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other agencies under Task Force HOPE (Honest, Orderly, and Peaceful Elections)–Eastern Visayas.
“Our commitment is to protect the sanctity of the ballot, particularly in areas identified as high-risk. We are working closely with our partners to ensure the safe and unhampered conduct of the elections,” Major Mariano said.
As part of its election security strategy, the PNP has also deployed six to eight policemen in nearly all barangays of Sta. Margarita.
These personnel are tasked with guarding barangay halls, schools where vote counting machines are stored, and patrolling municipal streets—especially during nighttime hours to deter criminal activity and potential election-related violence.
The increased police and military presence has been well-received by local officials. At least four barangay chairmen interviewed by The Samar Chronicle expressed their relief and gratitude, noting that this is the first time in years they feel confident about voting without fear.
“Ngayong election, sigurado kami na lahat ay makakaboto dahil wala na kami dapat ikatakot. Secured kami dahil andito ang mga kapulisan at kasundaluhan para bantayan kami,” said Salvador Getigan, chairman of Barangay Balud.
In Southern Leyte, Task Force HOPE–Eastern Visayas, led by Colonel Arlino Sendaydiego, also conducted ocular inspections to monitor troop deployments and readiness just days before the polls. The task force, composed of personnel from the military, PNP, Philippine Coast Guard, and other agencies, continues to carry out synchronized security operations across the region.
“Our mission is to keep all candidates, their supporters, and the voters safe until the election process ends,” Col. Sendaydiego said.
“The Filipino people must be able to vote freely, without fear or intimidation. Together with our partners, we are committed to upholding the integrity of the elections—ensuring they are honest, orderly, and peaceful.”
Sta. Margarita remains the only municipality in Eastern Visayas under the COMELEC’s “red category,” indicating a combination of serious security threats, political tensions, and a history of electoral violence. | By Ricky Bautista / The Samar Chronicle. Photos courtesy of the Philippine Army.
