Albay: A man passed away in an Albay town shortly after casting his vote on Monday morning, as reported by the Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5). PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon confirmed that the 65-year-old experienced dizziness and subsequently lost consciousness.

According to Philippines News Agency, the victim had just completed casting his vote when he began to feel dizzy and informed his wife of his condition. Despite receiving first aid and being transported to the Josefina Belmonte Duran Albay Provincial Hospital in Ligao City, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

In another incident, PRO-5 reported the arrest of four armed suspects for violating firearms and election laws on Sunday. Dizon stated that the suspects would face charges related to Republic Act (RA) 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, RA 9516 on illegal possession of explosives, and the Omnibus Election Code.

The Daraga Municipal Police Station (MPS) received a tip about alleged armed individuals at the residence of the Barangay San Vicente Grande captain. Acting on the information, a composite team, including the Police Intelligence Unit, 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, Special Weapons and Tactics Team of Albay police, and 31st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, was mobilized.

The team intercepted the suspects en route, identified as alias Fernando, Ryan, Noli, and Tirso, all residents of Sorsogon. A search of their belongings revealed multiple firearms and explosives, including five .38-caliber revolvers, one 9mm Ingram, one hand grenade, assorted ammunition, a loaded magazine for the Ingram, a backpack with personal items, and two sling bags with identification cards.

The suspects were taken to the Daraga MPS for further investigation and documentation. Dizon urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that could threaten peace and security, particularly during the election period.

He emphasized the importance of cooperation with law enforcement agencies to prevent illegal possession of firearms, explosives, and other election-related crimes. The Philippine National Police-Bicol is committed to increasing police visibility and patrol operations to deter criminal activities and ensure public safety.

Further investigations are being conducted to determine if the suspects have links to larger criminal groups or politically motivated activities.