COMELEC Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Supervising Elections Officer, Atty. John B. Cubero and City Elections Officer of Pagadian City, Atty. Jed M. Labador informs viewers and listeners of the Kapihan sa PIA and DXPR about the Kontra Bigay 2.0 and reminds the candidates and public to adhere to election laws and regulations.
PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (PIA) – The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) called on candidates and voters in Zamboanga del Sur to uphold clean elections and refrain from illegal activities, emphasizing the severe consequences of wrongdoing.
“On behalf of COMELEC, we encourage voters here in Zamboanga del Sur to vote wisely, vote correctly, and not sell their votes. If we see anything wrong, we should not get involved,” said lawyer John B. Cubero, COMELEC Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Supervising Elections Officer.
The COMELEC highlighted its “Kontra Bigay 2.0” program, an expansion of its anti-vote-buying initiative, which now includes the abuse of government resources. This program underscores the commission’s commitment to combating illegal practices that have marred past elections.
“Looking back on previous elections, we cannot deny that many have already complained about vote-buying and vote-selling,” said lawyer Jed M. Labador, COMELEC City Elections Officer of Pagadian City. He noted that these practices are prevalent nationwide.
The commission warned that violations of election laws carry penalties of one to six years imprisonment and permanent disqualification from public office. Winning candidates are not exempt from facing election-related charges.
With the local election campaign period beginning March 28, 2025, COMELEC urged the public to report any instances of violence, harassment, or suspicious activities. A witness protection program is available for those willing to testify.
Reports can be submitted to the Kontra Bigay 2.0 committee via email at [email protected] or by calling 09952993725 (Globe) and 09219545992 (Smart).
The COMELEC emphasized that ensuring clean elections requires collective effort, urging voters to resist bribery and other forms of influence that undermine the integrity of the electoral process. (CCP/JCN/PIA- Zamboanga del Sur)
