Comelec investigates 4 alleged vote-buying incidents

As the May 2025 elections approach, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) is investigating four alleged vote-buying incidents across different regions.

According to a Saturday 24 Oras Weekend report by Sandra Aguinaldo, the cases include:

• Balingasag, Misamis Oriental – Aid distribution featuring images of three local aspirants.
• Apayao – A large-scale vote-buying scheme under scrutiny.
• Baguio City – Reports of voters receiving P100 and membership IDs.
• Ponte Vedra, Negros Oriental – Allegations of premature campaigning.

Comelec Commissioner Ernesto Maceda Jr. reiterated the poll body's commitment to fair elections, emphasizing that they can initiate cases even without complainants if enough evidence is found.

“May nasampolan ho kami noong 2023. Marami ho kami hindi pinaupo kahit nanalo na,” said Maceda, adding that governors had also been disqualified in previous elections due to election violations.

(We set an example in 2023. Many candidates were disqualified despite winning due to election violations.)

Swift transmission 

To speed up election results, Comelec has partnered with telecommunications companies for a swift transmission process starting at 7 p.m., with partial, unofficial results by 8:30 p.m., barring technical issues.

“Estimate namin mata-transmit ang lahat using the tech na meron mga telco natin na hanggang 8:30 ng gabi pero unofficial yun. Partial but unofficial,” said Comelec Chairman George Garcia. 

(Using telecom technology, we estimate all transmissions will be completed by 8:30 p.m.) 

Election watchers and lawyers will have immediate access to results.

Alberto Catangui, iOne President, assured the efficiency of the transmission process, provided all SIM cards function properly.

To reduce congestion, Comelec has also partnered with major mall chains, designating 42 branches as voting precincts.

Other updates

Dr. Willie Ong has withdrawn from the senatorial race due to cancer treatment, with his wife submitting the withdrawal documents.

Meanwhile, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed Republic Act 12123, postponing the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliamentary elections from May to October 13, 2025.

Comelec assured it would make the necessary adjustments despite the shortened timeline for BARMM election preparations. — Sherylin Untalan/DVM, GMA Integrated News

For more Eleksyon 2025 related content and updates, visit GMA News Online's Eleksyon 2025 microsite.