2 die in poll watchers’ orientation stampede

ZAMBOANGA CITY , Philippines – Two people died while 14 others were injured in a stampede that occurred during the orientation and distribution of food and transportation allowance of poll watchers in this city on Friday night.

The local office of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) ordered the city police to investigate the incident that left Adelardo Solamillo, 65, and Norma Anuddin, 80, dead.

Fourteen others were reportedly treated for injuries they suffered during the incident.

Jan Christian Babiera, chief of the Comelec-Zamboanga City, directed the local police to identify the organizers of the orientation.

Babiera said the Comelec received reports that vote buying occurred during the event.

Investigation showed the victims suffered difficulty in breathing and collapsed when the crowd went out of control, according to Col. Fidel Fortaleza, chief of the Zamboanga City police.

The event was reportedly organized by supporters of incumbent Mayor John Dalipe, whose father – former congressman Jose Manuel Dalipe – is seeking the mayoral post in the May 12 elections.

Former congressman Celso Lobregat said the event was intended for vote buying, that’s why it drew a large number of people.

“What happened was a mockery of the election process. The Comelec announced that distribution of ayuda is prohibited starting May 2. Why were there too many people if the event was intended only for orientation and distribution of food and transportation allowance of poll watchers,”  Lobregat said.

In a statement, Zamboanga city hall spokesperson Liza Jocson said the activity was intended for the orientation and distribution of food and transportation allowance of poll watchers.

“What was supposed to be a well-planned and orderly activity went wrong when thousands of people unexpectedly showed up at the venue, which can only hold a limited number of participants,” Jocson said.

She said the Dalipes provided assistance to the family of the fatalities.