Comelec declares war vs new vote-buying methods

MANILA, Philippines — To ensure that only those truly elected by the people assume office, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has intensified its efforts against the evolving tactics of vote-buying.

Comelec Commissioner Ernest Maceda, head of the Committee on Kontra Bigay, said the poll body is closely monitoring the situation and will strictly enforce measures to prevent all forms of vote-buying ahead of the May 12 midterm elections.

He noted that the Commission has adopted innovative measures to ensure that “force, fraud and funds” cannot be used by candidates to manipulate the election results.

Along with traditional vote-buying tactics, Maceda noted the rise of a new form of vote-buying – using social services to influence voters.

“Given the widespread abuse of state assistance, we have expanded our focus to include the misuse of state resources,” he said.

As part of this initiative, the Comelec will prohibit the distribution of welfare aid within 10 days before election day.

In addition to prosecuting vote-buying offenses, Maceda pointed out that the Commission will also pursue disqualification proceedings against those involved in such practices.

The poll body has introduced new rules for campaign conduct and vote-buying, which is the presumption of guilt.

For example, distributing aid with a candidate’s picture will be presumed as an attempt to buy votes, thus classifying it as vote-buying.

As of now, Comelec has filed seven reports of vote-buying and continues to receive similar complaints.

In support of the campaign against vote-buying, GCash has announced a temporary limit on daily transactions, even for business users, to ensure transparency and prevent financial misuse during the election period.

Maceda added the Comelec would strictly enforce rules to prevent the abuse of state resources in the lead-up to the elections.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia reassured the public that the May 2025 elections would be free from cheating, citing the introduction of a new automated election system.  –  Elizabeth Marcelo, Emmanuel Tupas