MANILA - The Commission on Elections (Comelec) condemned the latest incident of election-related violence in Lanao del Norte province.

In a statement, the commission said the killing of its acting election officer in the Nunungan, Lanao del Norte is an assault on the country’s democracy.

“The Commission on Elections condemns in the strongest terms the brutal killing of Mr. Mark Orlando Q. Vallecer II, acting election officer of Nunungan, Lanao del Norte. This senseless attack, which occurred earlier today in Salvador, Lanao del Norte, is not only a crime against a public servant but an assault on democracy itself,” the Comelec said in a statement.

Vallecer was ambushed while driving his car on his way back to Cagayan de Oro from Salvador, Lanao del Norte.

According to the commission, the latest incident of violence disrupts the electoral process and undermine the values of justice and freedom of a nation.

“Violence has no place in a democratic society. Such acts spread fear, disrupt the electoral process, and undermine the values of justice and freedom that bind us as a nation,” the Comelec said.

The poll body also said it is in close coordination with the law enforcement agencies of the government to ensure that the perpetrators will face justice.

“The Commission, in close coordination with law enforcement, is committed to ensuring that the perpetrators of this heinous act are swiftly identified and brought to justice. Measures are being taken to expedite the investigation, and we will work tirelessly to prevent similar incidents in the future.”

The Comelec also called on the public to reject any forms of violence and intimidation this coming elections.

“As we approach the upcoming elections, we call on candidates, supporters, and the public to reject violence and intimidation. True leadership is earned through respect, trust, and principled competition, not fear and coercion,” the Comelec said.

“We mourn the loss of a colleague who served with courage and integrity, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. The Commission remains steadfast in its mission to uphold free, fair, and peaceful elections. Violence will not deter us, and those who seek to harm democracy will face the full force of justice,” it added.