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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider Ex-mayor Isko faces Comelec's show-cause order over alleged vote-buying

Ex-mayor Isko faces Comelec's show-cause order over alleged vote-buying

Published Apr 24, 2025 11:41 am

Manila mayoral candidate Isko Moreno-Domagoso has been issued a show-cause order (SCO) by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) over alleged vote-buying — a serious election offense that could lead to disqualification under Comelec rules.

Moreno was among nine candidates flagged in a list released on Thursday afternoon, April 24.

According to the Comelec, the former Manila mayor is being scrutinized for the alleged distribution of P3,000 to public school teachers, an act that may constitute vote-buying under election laws.

The poll body reiterated its warning that any candidate or individual found guilty of vote-buying could face disqualification. 

To reinforce this stance, Comelec Chair George Erwin Garcia formed the Committee on Kontra Bigay through Resolution No. 11104. 

The committee is tasked with enforcing laws against vote-buying and vote-selling, and includes representatives from key government agencies such as the Philippine National Police (PNP), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Comelec established regional, provincial, and city-level "Kontra Bigay" units. 

These localized groups are responsible for monitoring, surveillance, and reporting of election offenses at the grassroots level.

Resolution 11104 defines vote-buying and vote-selling under Section 24 as “the act of giving, offering or promising anything of value in exchange for a vote.”

This definition goes beyond cash transactions and includes goods, services, or other favors exchanged for votes — or to influence others to vote in a certain way, or not at all.

The resolution also penalizes individuals who accept or solicit anything of value, either directly or indirectly, in exchange for influencing votes.

Law enforcement agencies are directed to closely monitor persons and locations, verify complaints and reports of vote-buying, and act upon credible information received.

Under election law, those found guilty of vote-buying or vote-selling may face imprisonment of one to six years without the benefit of probation. They may also be disqualified from holding public office, lose their right to vote, and political parties involved may be fined at least P10,000.

Comelec has given Moreno and the other recipients of the SCO a specific timeframe to explain or refute the allegations.

It said that failure to do so could result in further legal action, including disqualification proceedings.

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