THE DAVAO City Police Office (DCPO) reiterated its warning that individuals caught engaging in vote buying will be arrested and face legal consequences.
Article 22 of the Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines defines vote buying as “giving, offering, or promising money, favors, or jobs in exchange for a person’s vote for a candidate or to influence them to vote against another candidate.”
The Philippine National Police (PNP) emphasized that any individual involved in vote-buying activities will be apprehended and prosecuted under Comelec Resolution No. 10946, which established the Committee on Kontra Bigay and the “Kontra Bigay Complaint Center” to receive reports of vote buying and vote selling incidents.
In a statement, DCPO chief Colonel Hansel Marantan said, “We have to safeguard the rights of every voter and uphold the integrity of the democratic process. Voting is a privilege that comes only once every three years—a defining moment where every citizen’s voice shapes the future of our nation.”
“Let us stand united in protecting this fundamental right. Ensure that every vote is cast freely, fairly, and without fear. Defend democracy, uphold justice, and let the voice of the people be heard. Together, we build a stronger, more inclusive, and more just society,” he added.
Liquor ban in effect
Meanwhile, the DCPO also reminded the public that a liquor ban is in effect before and during election day.
According to Comelec Resolution No. 11057, “It shall be unlawful for any person to sell, furnish, offer, buy, serve, or take intoxicating liquor anywhere in the Philippines.”
The liquor ban is enforced from the day before the election, May 11, 2025, through election day, May 12, 2025.
