Man dies after casting ballot; 4 armed men nabbed in Albay

Albay

LEGAZPI CITY – The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) reported that a man died in an Albay town shortly after casting his vote on Monday morning.

PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon confirmed that a 65-year-old man experienced dizziness and subsequently lost consciousness.

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According to the report, the victim had completed casting his vote when he began to feel dizzy and informed his wife about his condition.

Dizon said that the victim received first aid and was transported to the Josefina Belmonte Duran Albay Provincial Hospital in Ligao City. He was pronounced dead on arrival.

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The PRO-5 also reported the arrest of four armed suspects for violating firearms and election laws on Sunday.

Dizon said the four will face charges related to Republic Act (RA) 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, RA 9516 on the illegal possession of explosives and the Omnibus Election Code.

The Daraga Municipal Police Station (MPS) received information about alleged armed individuals spotted at the residence of the Barangay San Vicente Grande captain.

The police station quickly mobilized a composite team, including the Police Intelligence Unit, 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, Special Weapons and Tactics Team of Albay police, and 31st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.

While en route to the area, the team intercepted the suspects, who were identified as alias Fernando, Ryan, Noli, and Tirso, all residents of Sorsogon.

A search of their belongings resulted in the seizure of multiple firearms and explosives, including five .38-caliber revolvers, one 9mm Ingram, one hand grenade, assorted ammunition, a loaded magazine for the Ingram, a backpack with personal belongings, and two sling bags containing identification cards and other items.

The arrested suspects were taken to the Daraga MPS for further investigation and proper documentation.

Dizon urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities that may threaten peace and security, especially during the election period.

“Citizens are encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to prevent illegal possession of firearms, explosives and other election-related crimes,” he said.

He said the Philippine National Police-Bicol is committed to enhancing police visibility and patrol operations throughout the region to deter criminal activities and ensure public safety.

Further investigations are underway to determine if the suspects are linked to larger criminal groups or politically motivated activities.