On May 13, expect the usual.
Philippine elections will not be complete without the election offenses. There will be for sure. But just how does one properly report and complain an election offense is something that everyone must be taught.
According to the Commission on Elections (Comelec), the public must document these offenses like vote buying activities and not just post photos and allegations on social media. Days before the elections, there have been quite a few posts–photos and videos alike–of what is claimed to be election offenses. However, posting on social media platforms like Facebook is not the proper action. It may gather widespread attention, reactions and comments, but definitely, it is not the right forum.
The way to do it is for voters who actually personally witness the commission of election offenses, and not mere hearsay, to file official complaints and present evidence to that effect. Well-documented vote buying acts plus the presence of witnesses who can testify to the commission of the offense is the right thing to do.
The way to do it is for voters who actually personally witness the commission of election offenses, and not mere hearsay, to file official complaints and present evidence to that effect. Well-documented vote buying acts plus the presence of witnesses who can testify to the commission of the offense is the right thing to do.
The Comelec has strongly emphasized that photos of money and sample ballots or possession of envelopes containing money allegedly meant for vote buying are not enough to prosecute a candidate. Vote buying, as defined in the Omnibus Election Code, is an election offense wherein an individual gives, offers, or promises money or anything of value to induce the public to vote for or against any candidate. An election offense carries the penalty of one to six years imprisonment, removal of the right to vote, and disqualification to hold public office.
Everyone needs to be vigilant but not overzealous as to becloud a reasonable mind to properly assess the situation. The elections can only be far from the usual if everyone does his part.
