The Commission on Elections (Comelec) in the Philippines, led by Chairperson George Erwin Garcia, stated that the installation of barbed wires and other barriers in areas within Lanao del Sur province has not been authorized. This announcement comes after reports surfaced regarding perceived militarization in the region, specifically within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The Comelec confirmed no activities were approved permitting the placement of these obstructions. The concern was initially brought to light by several civil society groups raising questions about the pre-election environment. Garcia’s statement seeks to clarify that such installations were not sanctioned by the election commission. The situation raises concerns regarding potential voter intimidation or disruption of the electoral process in Lanao del Sur. Further investigation may be warranted to determine who authorized the barriers.