On October 8, 2024, an unusual incident occurred in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, when the Certificate of Candidacy (COC) of mayoral aspirant Engr. Vicente Genova was snatched by an unidentified individual. The incident took place as Genova arrived at the local Commission on Elections (Comelec) office to formally file his COC for the upcoming 2025 midterm elections.
According to reports, Genova, 55, was with his supporters when the snatching occurred. A man, dressed in a dark shirt and cap, approached Genova and grabbed the green folder containing his COC. The incident happened around 9 a.m. inside the Comelec compound. Genova, surprised by the sudden attack, attempted to retrieve the folder from the suspect, resulting in a brief scuffle.
In a statement, Genova described the incident: “Pumasok ako sa gate ng Comelec compound. May bigla na lang umagaw sa aking hinahawakang green folder. Sa gulat ko, in-attempt ko siyang sunggaban.”
A second individual, believed to be an accomplice, tried to intervene but failed to assist in snatching the folder. Both suspects fled the scene shortly after. Despite the commotion, Genova successfully filed his COC later that day.
Local authorities, including the Himamaylan City police and Comelec officials, are currently investigating the incident. Police Colonel Rainerio de Chavez, Director of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, confirmed that they are coordinating with Comelec to determine the motive behind the snatching. “Ini-report sa atin. Imbestigahan natin. Tinitingnan nga natin kung ano pa yung mga possible motive,” De Chavez stated.
Atty. Ian Lee Ananoria, provincial election supervisor for Comelec Negros Occidental, also commented on the incident. “It was reported to me nang umaga ng election officer. I told him to conduct an investigation. Na-submit na namin sa regional office. They can always file a complaint.”
Witnesses at the scene captured the suspects on video, which has been turned over to authorities to assist in identifying the culprits. Aside from this isolated case, no other election-related incidents have been reported in Negros Occidental.
Genova, a former city engineer, is set to face incumbent Mayor Raymund Tongson, who is seeking his third and final term in the 2025 election.