BY: ANGELICA ARQUERO
As the election period approaches, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) and other government agencies are stepping up efforts to combat vote buying and selling.
Comelec, along with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), is ramping up the enforcement of “Oplan Kontra Bigay,” a campaign against vote buying and selling.
Election Officer IV John Paul Martin explained the purpose of the initiative. “The goal of Kontra Bigay is to level the playing field, protect vulnerable voters, and ensure fair elections,” he said.
The campaign also aims to prevent the misuse of government funds and resources during the campaign period. However, while there have been reports of vote buying, no formal complaints have been filed yet, according to Provincial Election Supervisor III Atty. Elenita Julia A. Tabangin-Capuyan.
“We haven’t recorded any violations yet, but we are already informing the public that acts such as giving out grocery items, financial aid programs like AICS and TUPAD, or using government resources for political gain are illegal,” Capuyan said.
Comelec warned that they will strictly enforce election laws. “We want to prevent violations as much as possible, but if necessary, we will proceed with legal action,” Martin stated.
Violators face at least six years of imprisonment, disqualification from voting, and a ban from holding public office. Political parties found guilty of violating election laws may also face fines of up to 10,000 pesos.
With the May elections fast approaching, Comelec Regional Director Julius Torres urged candidates to conduct a clean and peaceful campaign. “We hope that all aspirants will respect their opponents and ensure a fair election,” he said.
