26 areas in Cagayan Valley eyed as poll hotspots

TUGUEGARAO, Philippines — Twenty-six areas in Cagayan and Isabela provinces have been identified as areas of concern for the 2025 midterm elections, according to a report of the regional joint security control center (RJSCC). 

Maj. Sharon Mallillin, spokesperson for the Cagayan Valley police, said the areas of concern were presented during a meeting of officials of the RJSCC, Commission on Elections and their counterparts in the police and military. 

Mallillin said data showed nine areas –­ Aparri, Enrile, Piat and Tuguegarao in Cagayan as well as Benito Soliven, Burgos, Mallig, San Isidro and San Mateo in Isabela – are under the yellow category or areas of concern.

Fifteen are under the orange category or areas of immediate concern, including Alcala, Baggao, Buguey, Gattaran, Gonzaga, Ilagan, Lasam, Peñablanca, Rizal, Sta. Teresita, Sto. Nino, San Guillermo, San Mariano, San Pablo and Tuao.

Mallillin said Jones and Maconacon in Isabela are under the red category or areas of grave concern. 

She said the police and military have tightened security in these areas, increased police visibility and intensified checkpoints.

Mallillin said election officers and local officials would conduct continuous dialogues as part of the preparations for the midterm elections.