To ensure that only duly elected officials assume office, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has intensified efforts against evolving vote-buying tactics ahead of the May 12 midterm elections.
Comelec Commissioner Ernest Maceda, head of the Committee on Kontra Bigay, emphasized that the poll body is closely monitoring election-related activities and will strictly enforce measures to prevent vote-buying in any form.
The Commission has implemented innovative safeguards to prevent candidates from using force, fraud, or funds to manipulate election results.
Maceda highlighted a growing concern: the use of state assistance programs to influence voters.
“Given the widespread abuse of government aid, we have expanded our focus to include the misuse of state resources,” he said.
To curb this, the Comelec will prohibit the distribution of welfare aid within 10 days before election day.
In a bold move, the poll body has introduced new rules presuming guilt in cases of vote-buying.
For instance, distributing aid with a candidate’s picture will be automatically classified as vote-buying. Those found guilty may face prosecution and disqualification.
So far, Comelec has filed seven reports of vote-buying and continues to receive complaints.
In support of the campaign against vote-buying, GCash has imposed temporary transaction limits to enhance transparency and prevent financial misuse during the election period.
Maceda assured that Comelec will strictly enforce rules to prevent the abuse of state resources leading up to the elections.
Comelec Chairman George Garcia reassured the public that the May elections will be free from cheating, citing the introduction of a new automated election system designed to uphold electoral integrity.
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