Special poll in the south next week

Manila: Special elections in 18 areas of the south have been postponed until next week after school teachers and Election Officers (EOs) forced the postponement of polls in Lanao del Sur, Basilan and Sulu by refusing to man precincts and failing to turn up respectively.

"The teachers refused to serve because of harassment and threats from warring political groups. Some EOs refused to serve and some could not be located," Poll Commissioner Rene Sarmiento told a press briefing at the Philippine International Convention Centre where canvassing for the senatorial race is being held.

Sarmiento is to recommend special elections take place in 13 municipalities in Lanao del Sur, three villages in Akbar, one village in Basilan, and one municipality in Sulu next week.

He will also seek the permission for the creation of a special task force to investigate why polls always fail in Lanao del Sur on election day.