TWO senior citizens died while 10 others were injured in a stampede that broke out during an alleged payout for poll watchers organized by a group of candidates in Barangay Tumaga, Zamboanga City on Saturday, May 10.
Reports showed videos of a large crowd rushing to enter a local hotel where the distribution was reportedly taking place.
In one clip shared by a netizen, a woman was seen being dragged out after getting caught in the crush of people.
Police said they are still investigating the incident.
Meanwhile, in a separate hotel in Barangay Pasonanca, at least 11 residents—mostly elderly—collapsed from exhaustion and hunger while waiting for their supposed payment as watchers from unnamed candidates.
The Commission on Elections earlier ordered police to disperse crowds at alleged payout sites across the city to prevent untoward incidents.
