The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has escalated its efforts to combat vote-buying by issuing additional show-cause orders to candidates suspected of engaging in illicit campaign practices.
This move is part of the poll body’s intensified efforts to uphold electoral integrity through its Committee on Kontra Bigay (CKB).
Comelec Chairman George Garcia emphasized that these orders are not immediate indictments but formal requests for candidates to explain alleged irregularities.
He clarified that even non-monetary inducements, such as promises or free movie tickets, could constitute vote-buying under election laws.
The commission has been proactive in addressing electoral violations, having received numerous complaints related to vote-buying and abuse of state resources.
These reports predominantly originate from the National Capital Region, Region III, and Region IV-A.
Comelec’s actions underscore its commitment to ensuring fair and lawful elections, urging all candidates to adhere strictly to electoral regulations.
