Davao Oriental was identified as one of the most vote-buying-infested areas in the Philippines during the 2025 midterm elections, according to a preliminary report by the European Union Election Observation Mission (EU-EOM).
Marta Temido, the mission’s Chief Observer, said credible reports of vote-buying were received from several areas, including Bohol, Davao Oriental, La Union, Palawan, Quezon, Siquijor, Zamboanga City, and Zamboanga del Sur.
Temido described the situation as “endemic,” likening the widespread practice to a disease entrenched in local political systems. The vote-buying schemes reportedly involved the distribution of cash and goods to voters.
Aside from vote-buying, the EU-EOM also documented multiple incidents of election-related violence. At least 30 people were reported killed across the country, including during the election day itself.
“These things should not happen in a democratic country like the Philippines,” Temido stated.
The group’s report also noted the continued dominance of political dynasties, which it said limited voter choice and undermined democratic processes.
The EU-EOM clarified that this report is only preliminary. A final and more comprehensive assessment is expected to be released within two months.
The European Union has regularly monitored Philippine elections and provides assessments to help improve transparency and democratic standards.
