Muslim region in southern Philippines holds first elections

A predominantly Muslim region in the southern Philippines has held its first elections for a regional parliament following years of delays, moving it closer to self-rule after decades of insurgency and violence. Officials said turnout was over 80%, even as five people were killed in election-related violence in the regional capital and polling was extended to a second day in some precincts over a suspected effort to cheat.

Authorities extended voting into Tuesday in 36 precincts in Maluso town on Basilan island after finding pre-filled-out ballots. Voters are choosing the 80 members of a regional parliament, who will in turn elect a chief minister in their first session. The winners are expected to be announced by the end of Tuesday.

Read the original report at Apnews.