The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has approved the enforcement of warrantless arrests for individuals caught engaging in vote buying or selling.
COMELEC Chairperson George Garcia confirmed that the move follows a newly issued resolution emphasizing the Supreme Court’s ruling that vote buying, when caught in the act, justifies immediate arrest.
Garcia explained that the Supreme Court has consistently upheld this interpretation, making it clear that authorities are authorized to act without a warrant in such cases.
To strengthen enforcement, Garcia urged the public to report any vote-buying incidents to law enforcement agencies.
The decision comes as the country prepares for the upcoming elections, with authorities aiming to curb electoral fraud.
