Manila: No major untoward incidents have so far been reported during the conduct of the May 12 national and local elections, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Jay Ruiz said on Monday. Ruiz assured the public of the state media’s collaborative and extensive efforts to provide real-time, reliable, and nationwide reporting on midterm elections.

According to Philippines News Agency, Ruiz mentioned that the command center had not received any reports of significant unfortunate events. He noted an isolated case where an elderly woman fainted due to high heat at a polling precinct. Ruiz, who voted early in Barangay Holy Spirit, Quezon City, observed smooth processing and minimal waiting times at his polling place but acknowledged differences in other precincts, especially congested ones.

Ruiz called on the public to report any fraud, violence, or irregularities during the 2025 midterm elections, emphasizing the presence and readiness of the Philippine National Police to respond to such reports. He urged voters to choose the right leaders for a better government and future.

Over 200 state media workers were deployed nationwide for the ‘Hatol ng Bayan’ coverage, which began early Monday and will continue until Tuesday. Ruiz highlighted the collaboration between government media, the PNP, and the Department of Information and Communications Technology to combat disinformation during the campaign period. Early attempts to spread disinformation online had been identified and neutralized in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive.

Ruiz encouraged the public to rely on trusted news sources, particularly during elections, assuring them of state media’s commitment to serving and informing the public. He emphasized the importance of accurate and fair coverage, reflecting the government’s dedication to the people. Ruiz concluded by expressing optimism for the country’s future through unity and the right leadership, echoing President Marcos’s vision of hope for a New Philippines.