The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is intensifying efforts to combat evolving vote-buying tactics ahead of the May 12 midterm elections.
Commissioner Ernest Maceda, head of the Committee on Kontra Bigay, emphasized the monitoring of both traditional and new forms of vote-buying, including the misuse of state resources and social services to influence voters.
The Comelec has introduced measures such as prohibiting the distribution of welfare aid within 10 days of the election and presuming guilt for distributing aid with a candidate’s picture.
In addition to prosecuting offenders, the Commission will pursue disqualification proceedings against those involved in vote-buying.
Comelec has also received seven reports of vote-buying so far, with the support of GCash’s transaction limits to prevent financial misuse during the election period.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 13, 2025
