Vote Buying During Philippine Midterm Elections Remains Widespread
Vote buying during Philippine midterm elections continues to be a deeply rooted problem, according to observers from the European Union Election Observation Mission. They reported that despite efforts to ensure fair elections, buying votes through cash, goods, and government aid remains common. This practice is closely linked to poverty, making it a complex issue that requires serious attention.
Marta Temido, chief observer of the EU mission, explained, “We heard many times that there was more gold in these elections. EU observers witnessed several credible indications and received reports of vote buying through cash, goods as well as distribution of ayuda.” She emphasized that vote buying is “entrenched and endemic and requires a major engagement to be adequately addressed.”
Temido also pointed out that poverty plays a major role in perpetuating vote buying. “When daily life is a struggle, then some food, a small amount of money or essential services, health care or funeral expenses offered in exchange for votes can feel like a tangible benefit,” she said.
Election Violence and Legal Challenges
The EU team noted that election-related violence was present, with about 30 reported cases and 10 fatalities on election day alone. While some argue that the violence was less severe than in previous elections, the observers stressed that any violence is unacceptable in a democratic process. “Violence is not a matter of statistics, it is about human lives,” Temido added.
Furthermore, the existing legal framework governing elections was described as fragmented and lacking effective mechanisms to address grievances. This complicates efforts to tackle systemic problems such as vote buying and political dominance by influential families.
Challenges Faced by EU Observers
Both Temido and EU Parliament member Vladimir Prebilic expressed disappointment over the last-minute decision by the election commission to bar EU observers from entering polling precincts. This move contradicted prior agreements granting observers full access to the electoral process. The observers were instead asked to observe from outside, which they found inadequate for proper monitoring.
Temido said, “The decision to not allow us into precincts was communicated to us just four days before elections. We were very surprised, shocked. The solution proposed by the Comelec to stay outside the precincts as the option to deal with the situation. [But] to witness through a window is not compatible with our methodology. To look through a window is not to observe.”
Prebilic added that attempts to negotiate a compromise before election day were unsuccessful as poll officials refused to engage in dialogue. “Communication is essential… if you do not have a party to communicate with, it’s difficult. We really regret the situation,” he said.
Impressive Voter Turnout Despite Difficulties
Despite these challenges, EU observers praised the high voter turnout during the May 12 elections. Prebilic remarked, “One good thing [that happened] is [the] impressive turnout of Filipino [voters], and this is a really, really good starting point for any democracy around the world.” He acknowledged the patience and commitment of voters who lined up under difficult weather conditions to exercise their democratic rights.
Temido also highlighted that this turnout reflects a “strong commitment to democracy and civic values, despite the persistence of vote buying and other systemic issues.”
Recommendations for Future Election Reforms
Looking ahead, the observers suggested updating the Omnibus Election Code, which dates back to 1985, to better address recurring election concerns. Prebilic noted, “I think that reform of electoral law that is from 1985 is something that is worth considering… modernization of this legal framework would be really appreciated, not for the international community, but for your country and democracy within the Philippines.”
The EU mission concluded with respect for the Filipino people’s democratic spirit and hopes their observations will help improve future elections. They also expressed interest in continued dialogue to strengthen democratic processes.
The election commission reported that voter turnout for the midterm elections was significantly higher than the usual 60 to 65 percent, though final official figures have not yet been released.
For more election-related updates, visit Filipinokami.com.
