Nine Municipal mayors in Negros Oriental on Sunday declared their support for the proposed deferment of the Barangay at Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) slated this October in the province.

The nine town mayors were Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo, Dauin Mayor Galicano Truita, Siaton Mayor Cezanne Fritz Diaz, Ayungon Mayor Dennis Amancio, San Jose Mayor Mel Nick Logronio, Guihulngan Mayor Filomeno Reyes, Dumaguete Felipe Remollo, Tayasan Susano Ruperto, and Bindoy Mayor Eniego Jabagat.

“We firmly believe that this necessary action is crucial to address the peace and order concerns that plagued our province,” the Municipal mayors said in the joint statement shared by Janice Degamo.

They cited that an “atmosphere of fear and intimidation” is still present in the province as most perpetrators in recent tragic events, including the brutal assassination of former governor Roel Degamo and nine other civilians, remain at large.

The Municipal mayors also mentioned that deep-rooted fear has “plagued” voters for over a decade due to the history of prior harassments, killings, and acts of intimidation.

“The fear, though not openly expressed, lingers within the hearts and minds of our constituents, making it challenging for them to exercise their democratic rights freely and without coercion,” they added.

Once postponed, the nine chief local executives said that the Commission on Election (Comelec), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) will be able to strengthen their security measures.

“By dedicating resources and expertise to reassess and fortify security protocols, we can effectively mitigate resources and create a safe and secure environment for candidates, voters, and election personnel,” they noted.

The Municipal mayors then urged the poll body and relevant government authorities to consider the BSKE deferment in Negros Oriental.

“We stand united in our commitment to the safety, welfare, and democratic principles of our constituents. Together, we can work toward creating an environment where peace and justice prevail, fostering a brighter future for Negros Oriental,” they said.

Earlier, Comelec Chairman George Garcia said that the poll body has yet to come up with a decision regarding the BSKE postponement in Negros Oriental.

He said they would still need to conduct a hearing in every Barangay in the province to learn about the sentiments of the residents.