The Commission on Elections placed the town of Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao del Norte is under its direct control following the death of its election officer and her husband.

It is the first town to be under Comelec control for the May 2025 elections.

In a press briefing, Comelec Chairman George Garcia Friday said they have promulgated the resolution officially placing Datu Odin Sinsuat under Comelec contro for the May 12 polls.

"The declaration is effective today and, therefore, the resolution is effective today," he added.

Placing the capital of Maguindanao del Norte under Comelec control was prompted by the killing of its Election Officer Maceda Abo and her husband, Jojo , last month.

Garcia said they don't intend to exercise their full power over Datu Odin Sinsuat despite being allowed by law.

"We can automatically takeover the LGU since it was declared under Comelec control... But if we don't find it necessary, we won't take over the LGU," said Garcia.

He said they also want life to be as normal as possible. DMS