As predicted by Comelec, vote-buying incidents surge

MANILA, Philippines — Two days before polling precincts open for the national and local elections, the Commission on Elections said it has observed a surge in vote-buying activities.

“Starting yesterday, there was an increase in vote buying and in attempts of vote buying,” Comelec Chairman George Garcia said yesterday.

He pointed out that vote buying is still mostly done the traditional way, where money actually changes hands.

“So far, you haven’t heard of those buying votes using GCash, PayMaya and other digital money platforms because they won’t be able to do that,” he said, noting how the poll body has partnered with GCash and PayMaya to combat vote-buying.

Garcia also warned the public against engaging in vote selling activities.

“On Monday, it is possible that several voters will be offered free rides, free coffee and food. That is vote buying and vote selling. The police might flag the vehicle and will see you holding sample ballots and envelopes. The erring voter will be filed a criminal case that is punishable by six years imprisonment,” Garcia said, adding, “There is no vote buying without vote selling. It takes two to tango.”

Garcia said the Comelec Committee on Kontra Bigay will submit a report on the exact number of vote-buying incidents.