Thirty-six of the 68 polling precincts in Maluso, Basilan have been compromised after some ballots were discovered to have been pre-shaded during the 2026 Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections.
According a report by Tina Nolasco, Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Garcia said authorities have already identified those allegedly behind the pre-shading and have determined the details surrounding the incident.
The development prompted the COMELEC to place Maluso under its control as voting for the first-ever BARMM parliamentary elections continues.
Meanwhile, Cotabato City was also placed under COMELEC control following a shooting incident that left three people dead and 15 others injured.
The shooting occurred at a school in Cotabato City on the eve of the elections, prompting authorities to heighten security measures in the area.
The COMELEC control over Maluso and Cotabato City is aimed at ensuring the orderly and peaceful conduct of the elections amid the incidents reported in both areas.
