Comelec Launches Investigations into Local Officials’ Alleged Electoral Interference

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is conducting inquiries into potential interference by local officials during the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), with instructions to its field offices to begin investigations promptly.

According to Philippines News Agency, the directive, issued by Chairman George Garcia, mandates regional directors to compile information on individuals who disrupted the electoral process. Laudiangco detailed this development to the press on Monday, revealing that initial reports pointed to possible political influence exerted by figures including mayors in the Bicol Region and Northern Mindanao.

The allegations being scrutinized range from the intimidation of Electoral Board members and Comelec personnel, to obstructing the declaration of election winners, issuing threats of violence, and maintaining an unnecessary presence at polling locations.

Chairman Garcia has expressed his desire for a swift legal response, with the expectation of resolving any filed cases within a three-week timeframe. Laudiangco underscored that any proven acts of coercion, threat, or violence related to the elections could constitute an electoral offense under Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code.

Should charges be brought forward, this would mark a precedent for Comelec in actively pursuing local officials for election-related offenses. Laudiangco emphasized the commission’s commitment to upholding electoral integrity by holding accountable all individuals who disturbed the democratic process, whether they are public officeholders or private citizens.