Vote-buying red-tagging election-related violence raise concerns
Just two days before the midterm polls, the International Observer Mission (IOM) has raised serious concerns over growing reports of vote-buying, red-tagging, and election-related violence across the Philippines. These issues threaten the integrity and safety of the upcoming elections.
Colleen Moore, IOM Commissioner and Director of Peace with Justice at the United Methodist Church, expressed grave worry about the alarming number of killings, vote-buying, and red-tagging incidents. The mission has been monitoring the electoral climate since the campaign period began in February.
This marks the coalition’s second mission in the country. Commissioners and volunteers have been deployed to key areas nationwide to document any incidents that might undermine a free and fair election.
Vote-buying red-tagging election-related violence: What the mission found
The IOM has independently verified 18 cases of vote-buying, adding to the 158 complaints already filed with the Commission on Elections (Comelec). Vote-buying often involves cash or goods ranging from P150 to as much as P5,000 per voter. It is especially widespread in rural, impoverished communities dominated by political dynasties.
Additionally, the IOM and local watchdog Vote Report PH recorded 577 cases of red-tagging. This practice targets candidates, campaign workers, local organizers, and even Comelec staff. Materials like flyers, posters, and leaflets falsely accuse individuals of ties to armed insurgents and have been posted near campaign events.
Moore described this systematic red-tagging as a coordinated attempt to intimidate and discredit democratic participants. She emphasized that it violates human rights and undermines the very idea of free and fair elections.
Vote-buying red-tagging election-related violence: Incidents and responses
The mission also documented 48 cases involving threats, harassment, and intimidation in regions including Northern and Southern Luzon and Northern Mindanao. Official data from Philippine authorities lists 62 election-related violence incidents from January 12 to April 28, with 35 confirmed politically motivated.
Recent violent episodes include:
- March 26: Municipal election officer Bai Maceda Lidasan-Abo and her husband were ambushed and killed in Maguindanao del Norte.
- April 10: Mayoral candidate Kerwin Espinosa was shot during a campaign in Albuera, Leyte; he has accused police involvement.
- April 23: Mayor Joel Ruma of Rizal, Cagayan was fatally shot during a campaign rally.
- April 29: Journalist and former Kalibo mayor Johnny Dayang was killed at home, raising concerns about attacks on media independence.
Despite these troubling reports, Comelec remains confident that the May 12 elections will proceed peacefully and in an orderly manner. Chairman George Garcia expressed strong trust in Filipino voters, expecting a calm election day.
He also mentioned that the voting process is set up to be swift, aiming for a quick proclamation of results.
With the election just days away, the spotlight on vote-buying red-tagging election-related violence intensifies, reminding everyone of the importance of vigilance and safeguarding democratic processes.