CEMS captured 144 real-time reports of election-related tensions and violence from 11-13 May in the Bangsamoro. These incidents were characterized by fistfights and the use of explosive devices, rather than the sort of gun battles that were a staple of previous electoral exercises.

The a run-up to the 2019 Philippine election was characterized by intense political rivalries that saw candidates and their supporters engage in mudslinging, vote buying, intimidation and threats, harassment, physical fights, and violence with the use of firearms.

The January 21 plebiscite to ratify the Bangsamoro Organic Law will certainly rank as one of the most peaceful political exercises in recent Bangsamoro history. There were many reports of violence but none approximating the magnitude or body count in previous political competitions.

By Tricia Aquino, News5 | InterAksyon | December 1, 2017 Violent incidents related to illegal drugs grew almost six-fold in…