Authorities in General Santos City have reported no security threats as the campaign period for local candidates begins on March 28 and ahead of the May 12 local and national midterm elections. Col. Nicomedes Olaivar Jr., the city police director, stated that the city remains classified under the green category, indicating no security concerns, based on assessments by joint security units and the Commission on Elections (Comelec). Olaivar emphasized the absence of intense political rivalries or a history of election-related violence in the area. The police are collaborating with various security and law enforcement units to maintain peace and order and ensure a smooth election process. Security measures include tightened intelligence monitoring, checkpoints on major roads and highways, and responses to suspicious incidents, such as an unattended package recently found on Roxas Avenue, which was determined to be non-explosive. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. Comelec has registered 368,454 eligible voters across the city’s 26 barangays, with over 700 police personnel set to secure 55 polling centers. Incumbent Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao, sister-in-law of former Senator Manny Pacquiao, is seeking re-election under the People’s Champ Movement, facing challenges from Vice Mayor Rosalita Nuñez and independent candidate Fraidelyn Samal Dani.
