TACLOBAN CITY- A man who was under the influence of liquor punctured a vote counting machine (VCM) in Catubig, Northern Samar on Monday night.
The suspect, identified as Efren Rosco, punctured the VCM carried by members of the board of election inspectors assigned in Barangay Osang on their way to the town proper at around 6:30 pm.
The victim also threatened the polls member headed by Clarito Irinco.
Village chairman Arnold Rosco was able to pacify the suspect until the electoral board reached the town proper safely.
According to the Police Regional Office based in Camp Ruperto Kangleon in Palo, Leyte, a total of 66 violators were arrested throughout Eastern Visayas in line with the 48-hour liquor ban imposed from May 12 to 13.
“Of these 66, 27 were arrested in Biliran in 7 operations; 23 in Northern Samar out of 6 operations; 11 in Eastern Samar out of 3 operations; 2 in Southern Leyte out of 2 operations and 3 in Tacloban in a single operation,” said Police Lieutenant Colonel Ma. Bella Rentuaya, regional public information officer.
“We did not fall short of constantly reminding the public to abide by the rules being imposed for the whole duration of the elections. Our reminders are very clear to do away from selling, buying and getting drunk while the liquor ban is still not lifted or else we will run after you,” added Police Brigadier General Dionardo Carlos, police regional director in Eastern Visayas.
During the liquor ban, selling and consuming of all alcoholic products were prohibited to prevent possible violence during the conduct of the elections.
Arrested suspects were charged for violation of Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code.
(RONALD O. REYES)
