The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is now investigating a total of 242 vote-buying cases across the country as the election season intensifies.
In a press briefing held in Bacolod City, Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia confirmed the number and said that the poll body has already issued show cause orders to individuals or groups involved in the alleged illegal activity.
Garcia noted that traditional vote-buying methods remain widespread, particularly the direct distribution of money to sway voters. However, he also raised concerns over a new method emerging in recent weeks—the distribution of “membership cards” that can allegedly be exchanged for benefits or services.
“This is still vote-buying,” Garcia emphasized, warning the public about evolving strategies that threaten the integrity of the electoral process.
The Comelec continues to call on citizens to report any suspicious activities related to vote buying. The poll body stressed that public cooperation is crucial in safeguarding the credibility of the upcoming elections.
The investigation is ongoing, and the Comelec vowed to hold accountable those found guilty of violating election laws.
