The Philippine National Police (PNP) gave a stern warning against anyone who will engage in buying or selling their votes amid the election season, reminding that they may be arrested if caught in the act even without a warrant.
The PNP issued this statement late Tuesday as it urged the public to remain vigilant and immediately report to their office any vote-buying and vote-selling activities taking place during the campaign period for the 2025 national and local elections.
Under the strengthened Kontra Bigay 2.0, actions that could be considered vote-buying and vote-selling—such as the distribution of money, products, or campaign materials to influence the votes of the citizens—will be strictly monitored.
Anyone caught doing these can be arrested immediately even without a warrant, according to PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil. He said they will not hesitate to arrest anyone caught selling or buying votes.
“The PNP will remain steadfast in enforcing the law. We urge the public to cooperate in the fight against vote-buying and vote-selling by reporting any illegal activities to the authorities,” the PNP Chief added.
Marbil also strictly instructed the police to strengthen monitoring and investigation against those who sell and buy votes.
“As the 2025 elections approach, the PNP is firmly committed to protecting the integrity of the elections. We will ensure that our ranks will not only implement but wholeheartedly embrace and live out the Kontra Bigay campaign for a clean, honest, and fair election,” Marbil said.
Pursuant to Article 12 of the Omnibus Election Code, anyone found involved in vote-buying and vote-selling can be imprisoned for one to six years. Complaints can be filed at the Commission on Elections (Comelec) main office or at the Kontra Bigay Centers in cities, provinces, and towns.
Marbil likewise assured that he will not hesitate to impose severe punishment if a police officer is involved in political meddling.
