Alcover hits vote-buying in recent midterm polls

CEBU, Philippines — Despite winning in the recently concluded midterm elections, Councilor Pastor “Jun” Alcover couldn’t help but criticize the alleged glaring vote-buying, which he called a stain in democracy.

Alcover echoed this sentiment in his privilege speech yesterday during the first council session following the announcement of the midterm election results.

In his speech, Alcover emphasized the definition of democracy, which he said comes from the "voice of the people," particularly expressed during elections.

He said it's been nine days after the midterm elections and changes in leadership have been determined through the votes of the people.

Alcover said he is grateful to be among those chosen to receive a fresh mandate to continue serving.

However, he said he was saddened by how the recent elections involved practices that should not be legally tolerated.

“Kay murag nagkabati, nagkagrabe, nagkahugaw na gyud ang kultura sa election sa atong nasud,” said Alcover.

Alcover referred to the various allegations of vote-buying that caused an uproar during the recently concluded elections.

He added that such practices are  serious blows to the country’s democracy, adding

that the elections were treated like a “fiesta.”

“Dili na seryoso ang katawhan pagpili sa tinuoray unta nga mu serbisyo sa atong gobyerno. Murag nawala na ang tinuod nga mithi ug adbokasiya niini sa demokatratikong proseso,” said Alcover.

Alcover further lamented that these practices saddened him. He was appalled by how social media has normalized the idea of vote-buying, which is frequently referred to as “kamang.”

According to him, this norm does not reflect the true value of democracy.

He  disclosed that he personally received text messages from voters demanding money in exchange for their votes.

“Murag nahimo na gyud nag normal nga pamaagi sa panahon sa election ang di unta nga normal situation,” said Alcover.

He added that this reflected the “decaying” social morals of some voters, stressing that it undermines democracy and encourages corrupt electoral practices.

According to him, it is the responsibility of elected officials to put an end to these practices while also elevating electoral awareness.

Alcover ended his speech by congratulating Cebu City Mayor-elect Nestor Archival Sr. and Vice Mayor-elect Tomas Osmeña.

As a councilor from the opposing party, Partido Kusug, under the ticket of sitting Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia—who failed in his bid for a fresh mandate—Alcover assured the council that he would collaborate with the new administration. (CEBU NEWS)