DAVAO CITY (May 11) – The Police Regional Office XI (PRO-XI) has issued a strong warning to both candidates and voters who may engage in vote buying and selling, stressing that those caught will face penalties under the law.
PRO-XI assured the public that authorities will closely monitor incidents of vote buying and selling, especially as the 2025 midterm elections draw near.
According to Police Major Catherine Dela Rey, spokesperson of PRO-XI, they are counting on the public’s cooperation to help detect and report any attempts to buy or sell votes.
“It’s important to immediately report any suspicious activity related to vote buying and selling. Your reports and information are crucial because you’re the ones on the ground—you’re part of the community. We cannot act unless we receive those reports,” said PMaj Dela Rey.
Those caught engaging in vote buying or selling will be penalized, as this is considered an election offense.
Violators may face imprisonment of no less than one year and up to six years, in addition to other penalties prescribed by law.
Giving money, or even in-kind items such as rice or canned goods from candidates to voters, is considered a form of vote buying and selling.
The police and the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) strongly advise the public to avoid engaging in such practices during the election period.
They emphasized the importance of protecting the right to vote and electing the right candidates into office.
PRO-XI also confirmed that some individuals have already been caught engaging in vote buying and selling. One incident occurred in Davao City and another in Davao de Oro. The corresponding complaints have been forwarded to COMELEC.
