PNP: 2025 midterm elections ‘generally peaceful’
People vote in the mid-term election at a polling station set up in a mall in Manila on May 12, 2025. Millions of Filipinos headed to the polls May 12 in a mid-term election widely seen as a referendum on the explosive feud between President Ferdinand Marcos and impeached Vice President Sara Duterte. (Photo by Jam STA ROSA / AFP)
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MANILA, Philippines — The 2025 national and local elections were “generally peaceful,” and no major untoward incidents were reported, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP).
In a press release posted on Facebook on Monday night, PNP Chief, Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil, commended all units of the PNP and partner government agencies for their efforts in keeping the midterm polls safe.
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“We stood firm and followed the directive of our President. The Filipino people rightfully deserve to experience a peaceful and honest election. We did not allow any force to disrupt or undermine the voting process. We were prepared, vigilant, and carried out our duties with utmost competence,” he said in Filipino.
The PNP said a total of 205,136 personnel from the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Fire Protection, and other agencies were deployed nationwide.
A man (C) votes at a polling station during mid-term elections in Manila on May 12, 2025. Millions of Filipinos headed to the polls May 12 in a mid-term election widely seen as a referendum on the explosive feud between President Ferdinand Marcos and impeached Vice President Sara Duterte. (Photo by Jam STA ROSA / AFP)
However, there were some reported minor technical and logistical issues, such as the malfunctioning of Automated Counting Machines, delays in the opening of precincts, and difficulties in finding voters’ names on the list, the PNP said.
The PNP assured the public that these were immediately addressed by the concerned authorities and did not pose a security threat or affect the orderly conduct of the elections.
It also said that authorities responded to and are investigating reported cases of liquor ban violations and alleged vote-buying.
“This victory is not just about maintaining peace today — it is about defending every Filipino’s right to choose their leaders freely and without fear. We will remain vigilant until the last vote is counted and the true will of the people is fully respected,” Marbil said.
The PNP remains on full alert during the conduct of canvassing until the proclamation of winning candidates. /cfc
