CEBU, Philippines — Three towns and one city in Cebu are under close watch by government security agencies looking to head off possible political violence as the 2013 elections approach.
While the areas have not yet been branded as election hotspots, the Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Conference (JPSCC) is keeping a careful eye on them, particularly in the fourth district of northern Cebu.
Senior Supt. Patrocinio Commendador Jr., the Cebu provincial police chief, said their reading of the security picture rests on existing political rivalries and the record of past violence or threats in each locality.
Supt. Paul Labra II, who heads the Regional Intelligence Division of PRO-7, said they are tracking developments in Tuburan, Sogod, and Bogo City in the fourth district, along with Danao City in the fifth.
The fourth district remains a tight battleground between the Martinez and Salimbangon camps, while Danao City is being contested by the split Durano clan. The tension is not new. On May 11, 2010, supporters of the Martinez and Salimbangon groups were locked in an eight-hour standoff.
The 2013 race sets up familiar rematches. Bogo City Mayor Celestino "Junie" Martinez Jr. again faces Mariquita Salimbangon-Yeung, while fourth district Rep. Benhur Salimbangon is once more up against Celestino "Tining" Martinez III.
In Danao City, cousins face off across several contests. Former vice mayor Boboy Durano is running for vice governor under One Cebu against LP-Kusug's bet, incumbent Agnes Magpale. For the city's mayorship, incumbent Mayor Ramon "Boy" Durano Jr. is being challenged by incumbent Vice Mayor Ramonito "Nito" Durano III.
Police Regional Office 7 director Chief Supt. Marcelo Garbo said they are monitoring 12 areas across Central Visayas. He said a JPSCC meeting held the previous Tuesday was the first in a planned series of conferences, adding that several critical areas remain under observation.
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