Police Brig. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin, director of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), ordered all police commanders in Metro Manila to beef up the intelligence monitoring against the possible misuse of government resources as part of the security measures against vote-buying and vote-selling.
Aberin said the order was in relation to the anti-cheating campaign of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) through the full implementation of the “Kontra Bigay” campaign which was launched to ensure the integrity of the May 12 midterm elections.
“We will implement a zero-tolerance policy against vote-buying and vote-selling to ensure that the voice of the people is protected,” said Aberin.
“We call on every voter to reject these unlawful acts and report any violations. By working together, we can make our elections a true reflection of the people’s will,” he added.
In the Comelec resolution for the “Kontra Bigay” campaign, the misuse of government resources include intervention of public officers and employees in the election; undue influence via promises of employment or projects; and, the release of public funds for programs and projects.
The same campaign directs law enforcement agencies to intensify intelligence monitoring and target the possession or distribution of money, goods, or campaign materials intended to influence voters, as well as organized efforts to manipulate the electoral process through financial transactions.
Earlier, national police chief Gen. Rommel Francisco directed all police regional directors to initiate measures to deny candidates the opportunity to influence voters in the form of vote-buying and the misuse of government resources.
Aberin said the NCRPO has already intensified monitoring efforts, operational responses, and collaboration with various key stakeholders.
In Mimaropa, regional police commander Brig. Gen. Roger L. Quesada said they have already intensified voters' awareness campaigns against any form of vote-buying and vote-selling.
“I have directed all police units in Mimaropa to strengthen intelligence monitoring, launch robust public awareness campaigns, and work closely with Comelec to investigate and address any signs of electoral fraud,” said Quesada.
Mimaropa covers the provinces of Oriental and Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan.
Both Aberin and Quesada warned offenders of consequences if they are caught violating the law, citing warrantless arrest and one to six years imprisonment under Article 12 of the Omnibus Election Code,
“We will implement a zero-tolerance policy against vote-buying and vote-selling to ensure that the voice of the people is protected. We call on every voter to reject these unlawful acts and report any violations. By working together, we can make our elections a true reflection of the people’s will,” said Aberin.
“We will promptly address any illegal transactions undermining our electoral process, as our commitment to democratic integrity is unwavering,” said Quesada for his part.