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Vote-buyers’ arrest sans warrant soon
Persons engaged in vote-buying or vote-selling may soon be arrested sans a warrant. This as the Commission on Elections is set to come out this month with new rules on vote-buying and vote-selling including citizen’s arrest of violators. Atty. John Rex Laudiangco, Comelec spokesperson, during Wednesday’s Laging Handa press briefing in Malacañang, said a temporary committee was revitalized into Committee on Anti-Kontra Bigay headed by Commissioner Ernesto Ferdinand Maceda Jr. The guidelines, Laudiangco said, will aid law enforcement and prosecution officials in pinning down those who would engage in vote-buying or vote-selling, during the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections in October. “The resolution on this is coming out in the coming week and it will be a deterrent to those planning to violate Section 261-A of the Omnibus Election Code,” he said. Comelec chairperson George Garcia, during the signing of a memorandum of agreement with the Philippine National Police and Philippine Coast Guard, said the rules may include warrantless arrest. Comelec, PNP and PCG committed to doing their best for fair and peaceful elections on 30 October. He issued a warning to stop the practice of vote-buying as a warrantless arrest will be implemented starting the campaign of the BSK elections. “In the guidelines that we will issue, we will allow the PNP to arrest if the person is caught in the act. We will authorize that now with the full backing of the Comelec because it is our belief that under our Constitution a warrantless arrest is allowed,” he said. Garcia said these revisions are needed because of the changing times and stop the long-time practice of vote-buying. The post Vote-buyers’ arrest sans warrant soon appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Vote buyers/sellers in BSKE face warrantless arrest
Anyone who will be caught in the act of buying or selling votes in connection with the Oct. 30 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan shall face outright arrest as there won’t be any need for a warrant......»»
Man who ‘raped’ own daughters collared
A 40-year-old man wanted for raping his own daughters was arrested by the police in a manhunt operation in Antipolo City Wednesday afternoon. The suspect, identified as Carlito Sacdalan, alias Tolits, a resident of Barangay San Luis, Antipolo City, is listed as No. 3 most wanted in the Calabarzon Region. He is accused of raping his two daughters — then 17 years old and 12 years old — while his wife was working abroad in 2016. According to the victims, they were repeatedly raped by their father. One of them got pregnant after the rape. The rape was discovered when the victims’ mother went home and found out that her eldest daughter was pregnant. Since then, the accused went into hiding after finding out that his daughters reported the incident to their mother. The accused was apprehended by joint operatives of the Antipolo City Police Station’s Warrant Section and CIDG Rizal PFU through a warrant of arrest issued by Judge Gay Marie Lubigan-Rafael of Antipolo City Regional Trial Court Branch 73 for five counts of qualified statutory rape, qualified rape and statutory rape with no bail recommended. The post Man who ‘raped’ own daughters collared appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Drug den in Brgy. Apas: Couple nabbed, P108,800 ‘shabu’ seized
CEBU CITY, Philippine — A couple was arrested for allegedly running a drug den in Barangay Apas, Cebu City on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, with call center agents and habal-habal drivers as their usual clients. A buy-bust operation at around 5:30 p.m. led to the arrest of Jonathan Roca, 44, and his common law partner,.....»»
Senior citizen shot dead in Cebu City; personal grudge eyed
CEBU CITY, Philippines – A senior citizen was killed after he was shot by a gunman in Cabancalan 2, Barangay Bulacao, Cebu City on Thursday morning, February 22, 2024. The victim was identified by his sister as 63-year-old Juan Ordenieza, who works as a parking attendant. He was shot while he was buying alcohol to have a.....»»
Cebu City drug bust: 5 persons nabbed, P102,000 ‘shabu’ seized
CEBU CITY, Philippines – A Cebu City drug bust led to the arrest of a man, who was once arrested for a drug case and released on bail, and his nephew and 3 others after a buy bust in Barangay Basak-San Nicolas, Cebu City on Thursday evening, February 15, 2024. The operation, which was initiated.....»»
Man, 23, admits to killing mother and son
CEBU CITY, Philippines- The 23-year-old suspect in the killing of a mother and her son in Barangay Carreta in Cebu City admitted to the two crimes when interviewed after his arrest. Self-confessed gunman Joselito Larriba, also known as Insek, also admitted that he was under the influence of drugs when he committed them. On December.....»»
22-year-old man caught with shabu and firearm in Cebu City
CEBU CITY, Philippines — A 22-year-old man will be spending his Christmas in jail rather than the comfort of his own home, as he was apprehended in Cebu City for possession of suspected shabu and a firearm. The arrest occurred during an anti-illegal drugs operation in Barangay Tejero, Cebu City, in the early hours of.....»»
P.5 million reward up for info on village chief’s killers
A reward of P500,000 has been offered for information leading to the arrest of those behind the killing of the reelected village chief of Barangay Poblacion in this town on Thursday night......»»
Comelec disqualifies 10 BSKE winners
Twenty-one candidates in the recently concluded barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections have been disqualified for premature campaigning and vote buying......»»
Observe poll laws, Abalos tells bets
Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos over the weekend said he was pleased that majority of Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections bets at least in Tondo, Manila were opting to comply with poll rules. “We went around and found few violations. So I commend the city of Manila under Mayor Honey for the successful Comelec drive that ensured obedience to the poll regulations,” he said. Abalos issued the statement shortly after joining Comelec chairman George Garcia in conducting Oplan Baklas drive or the removal of illegally placed and oversized campaign materials, particularly those hanging from electric posts or wires in Barangay 128, Tondo, Manila. As per Comelec rules, all BSKE bets are required to place all their campaign materials especially tarpaulins in the common poster areas. This, as he also reiterated his call for BSKE candidates to observe and abide by all election laws, rules, and regulations to ensure the successful and orderly conduct of BSKE. “Read up on the laws. It lists all that has to be done including the use of e-payment platforms for vote-buying. Let us maintain the integrity of the election and give the voters the respect that they deserve,” he pointed out. He went on to explain that candidates who hold bingo games, distribute prices, conduct hakot system or mass transporting of voters before or during election day, and handing out cash are telltale signs of being engaged in vote buying. Meanwhile, the Quezon City Government on Saturday said it is all set for the 2023 BSKE to be held in 169 polling precincts. Mayor Joy Belmonte lauded the relevant government agencies and QC Government departments such as the City Treasurer’s Office for leaving no stone unturned to ensure that QCitizens in 142 barangays can safely exercise their right to vote. The post Observe poll laws, Abalos tells bets appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Comelec warns candidates vs vote-buying on last day of BSKE campaign
The Commission on Elections issued a warning to candidates, telling them not to engage in vote-buying on the final day of campaign for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections......»»
COMELEC disqualifies QC SK chairman candidate for ‘vote buying’
A candidate for Sangguniang Kabataan chairmanship in Quezon City was disqualified by the Commission on Elections over 'vote buying' charges. In a seven-page resolution issued on 26 October 2023 and signed by COMELEC's Second Division Presiding Commissioner Marlon Casquejo, concurred by Commissioners Rey Bulay and Nelson Celis, noted that SK candidate Judielyn Bartolome Francisco of Barangay San Bartolome was "disqualified" to run for the upcoming BSKE elections as she violated Section 68 (a) of the Omnibus Elections Code for "vote buying". The case stemmed from a petition filed by Arjay Lacsa on 26 September this year, who claimed that Francisco engaged in vote buying by sponsoring and funding a leadership seminar "cum" team building of some 80 youths of their village at Paradise Adventure Camp in San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan held on 16 and 17 September 2023, a few weeks after the filing of candidacies. Pieces of evidence presented by Lacsa included social media posts of the participants themselves tagging Francisco as their " future SK chairman" and three affidavits of witnesses who claimed that Francisco was even present in that event. On 5 October, the COMELEC summoned Francisco to explain her side who gave her reply on 9 October saying she did not have the resources to fund the gathering while she also admitted being there as a host for the opening program "in return for a professional fee." She also informed the commission that she also filed perjury charges against Lacsa's witnesses at the Quezon City Prosecutor's Office. The commission, however, concluded that they "are not convinced" as Francisco's lengthy answer reveals that "they are in the nature of general denials emanating from respondent's self-serving and uncorroborated statements." The affidavits of Lacsa's witnesses, the commission added, are "rich in details" and the evidence is pointing to Francisco as the host of the team building. Francisco's involvement is a deliberate and strategic scheme to influence the voters of Barangay San Bartolome to vote for her, the commission's resolution read. The post COMELEC disqualifies QC SK chairman candidate for ‘vote buying’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Woman held for alleged vote buying in Navotas
Authorities raided a warehouse in Barangay San Jose, Navotas City on Wednesday and arrested a woman for alleged vote buying......»»
Starting ‘em young
Three days from now, Filipinos will troop to the polling precincts once again to elect their Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials in what is supposed to be an integral component of the country’s democratic system. The elections, postponed many times before, allow for the representation and participation of local communities and the youth. However, these elections have not been without controversy, with allegations of vote buying and the distribution of illegal campaign materials tarnishing the democratic process. Held every three years, the Barangay and SK Elections, also known as BSKE, play a critical role in the Philippine political landscape. Barangays are the smallest administrative units in the country, serving as the frontline of government service delivery. The SK, on the other hand, specifically represents the youth, offering them an opportunity to engage in the political process from a young age. Barangay elections ensure that the grassroots communities are represented in local governance. Residents can choose leaders directly responsible for addressing their immediate concerns, such as public safety, health, and education. SK elections aim to involve the youth in decision-making processes. By participating in these elections, young people can gain valuable experience in leadership, advocacy, and community service, setting the stage for their future involvement in national politics. These elections serve as a training ground for democracy, allowing citizens to exercise their right to vote and make informed choices. The principles of accountability, transparency, and participation are nurtured at the community level. Barangay elections can be particularly empowering for marginalized groups, including women and indigenous communities, who have the opportunity to run for office and make their voices heard. However, despite the importance of the BSKE, they have been marred by allegations of vote buying and the distribution of illegal campaign materials. These practices raise concerns about the integrity of the electoral process and whether they indicate an early introduction to corrupt political practices. Vote buying, whereby candidates offer money, goods, or services in exchange for votes, is a long-standing issue in Philippine politics. While it is not exclusive to Barangay and SK elections, the fact that such allegations surface even in these local-level contests is troubling. It begs the question of whether young people are witnessing and, to some extent, participating in a system that normalizes the exchange of votes for material gain. One possible explanation for the prevalence of vote buying is the socio-economic conditions in many barangays. Poverty and inequality can create an environment where voters may be more susceptible to monetary incentives. This underscores the need for broader efforts to alleviate poverty and promote education and awareness about the value of their vote. Another issue is the widespread use of illegal campaign materials, such as posters, banners, and pamphlets that do not conform to electoral regulations. While this may seem like a relatively minor infraction, it contributes to a culture of disregard for the rule of law and electoral integrity. Starting young in politics should ideally involve nurturing values of ethics and civic responsibility. Instead, when young people are exposed to campaigns that flout the rules, it may inadvertently teach them that bending or breaking rules is an acceptable strategy to achieve political goals. This sends a damaging message about the importance of playing by the rules in a democracy. Addressing the issues of vote buying and illegal campaign materials in barangay and SK elections is crucial to preserving the democratic process and instilling positive values in young people. Schools and community organizations should conduct programs to educate young people about the significance of their vote, ethical campaigning, and the consequences of vote buying. Such programs can help instill a sense of civic responsibility. The Commission on Elections, on the other hand, should vigorously enforce campaign finance and election laws, penalizing candidates who engage in illegal practices. It is crucial, therefore, to address these issues by emphasizing education, enforcement of election laws, transparency, and community involvement. In doing so, these elections can better serve as platforms for shaping the future leaders of the nation who are committed to the principles of democracy, integrity, and ethical governance. The post Starting ‘em young appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BoC, PCG stop robbery of seized fake products
Elements of combined operatives of the Bureau of Customs and Philippine Coast Guard stopped the theft of Customs-seized goods in a warehouse in Pasay City on Thursday night, resulting in the arrest of 67 Filipinos and 10 Chinese nationals. According to the BoC, the warehouse was previously sealed and padlocked during an operation against intellectual property rights infringing goods, specifically clothing apparel, footwear, and bags. BOC-Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service Director Verne Enciso said the operation was augmented by the CIIS-Manila International Container Port. “We received information from a well-placed asset that there was an ongoing theft in a Pasay warehouse we have previously sealed and padlocked. This warehouse had been subjected previously to a Letter of Authority,” he furthered. Upon receiving information, a team from the BOC’s Intellectual Property Rights Division immediately proceeded to 112 M. Acosta St., Barangay 77, Pasay City to interdict the illegal activities. During the operation, more or less 67 Filipinos and 10 Chinese nationals were caught breaking the BOC seal and were seen carrying the forfeited illicit goods from the upper floors down to the ground floor. A close truck van (L300) with plate number TNP 882 was also spotted being loaded with the forfeited goods. Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence Juvymax Uy assured that all forfeited items were accounted for through a verification conducted on the spot. “The success of each operation, including seeing them through the legal proceedings, is crucial to the health of the Philippine industry. These operations show the seriousness of our work and send the right message to businesses that want to invest here,” he said. “It is not lost on us that what we do here has a direct impact on local businesses, local employment, and the attractiveness of the Philippines as an investment destination,” Uy added. The post BoC, PCG stop robbery of seized fake products appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Comelec, PNP arrests individual for vote buying
The Commission on Elections and Navotas City Police Station launched Operation Kontra Bigay conducted on Wednesday at Mega Sardines Warehouse in Policarpio St. M. Naval, Barangay San Jose, Navotas City, 11:00 A.M., aimed to combat illegal electoral practices. The Operation Konta Bigay was led by Comelec Election Officer Atty. Greg Bonifacio and Police Colonel Mario Cortez.The authorities arrested an individual identified as Maribel Eugenio Policarpio, from Malabon City, who was caught in the act of distributing envelopes with money, About 200 registered voters from Barangay Longos were arrested as they were caught inside the warehouse conducting watchers training when Maribel was caught distributing envelopes with cash in it. According to the reports of the Comelec, each envelope contains about 300 to 500 pesos, all totaling P363,900.00. The post Comelec, PNP arrests individual for vote buying appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Comelec, PNP arrested individual for vote buying
The Commission on Elections and Navotas City Police Station launched Operation Kontra Bigay conducted on Wednesday at Mega Sardines Warehouse in Policarpio St. M. Naval, Barangay San Jose, Navotas City, 11:00 A.M., aimed to combat illegal electoral practices. The Operation Konta Bigay was led by Comelec Election Officer Atty. Greg Bonifacio and Police Colonel Mario Cortez.The authorities arrested an individual identified as Maribel Eugenio Policarpio, from Malabon City, who was caught in the act of distributing envelopes with money, About 200 registered voters from Barangay Longos were arrested as they were caught inside the warehouse conducting watchers training when Maribel was caught distributing envelopes with cash in it. According to the reports of the Comelec, each envelope contains about 300 to 500 pesos, all totaling P363,900.00. The post Comelec, PNP arrested individual for vote buying appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PNP, Comelec sharing polls data
The Philippine National Police sealed a data sharing agreement, or DSA, with the Commission on Elections to ensure the integrity and transparency of the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections, or BSKE, on 30 October. In accordance with the provisions of Republic Act 10173, the agreement grants Comelec access to the PNP’s Election Monitoring Systems andsub-systems. The Data Sharing Agreement outlines specific areas of collaboration aimed at bolstering the electoral process. Key components include access to the PNP Personnel Deployment, Surrendered Firearms, Voting Center Assistance, Election Status, Candidates, Partylists, Voting Center, Treasurer’s Office, Unlawful Election Materials, Gun Ban Details, Violations thereof, and other critical data related to the elections. Additionally, the agreement allows access to various sub-systems within the PNP Election Monitoring System, including geo-tagging for vote-buying, a separate sub-system forvote-buying, and another for Task Force Kontra Fake News, following the Comelec’s specifications. By working together, the PNP and the Comelec can take better and more appropriate steps to ensure safe, fair, and orderly elections. “We will make a difference in ensuring that the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections of 2023 serve as a shining example of democracy in action,” PNP Chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. said in a statement at the signing ceremony on Monday. The post PNP, Comelec sharing polls data appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aspiring village chief gunned down
MALASIQUI, Pangasinan — Authorities here reported that a barangay chairperson candidate for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections was shot dead in Barangay Bayaoas, Aguilar town. Aguilar police investigator Master Sgt. Reynante Abril said that the victim — identified as Arnel Flormata and a contender for the barangay captain post — was employed as an administrative supervisor at Aboitiz Solar Services. More police operatives have been deployed to identify and arrest the suspect behind the shooting. “The incident happened at around 11:35 p.m. Sunday. The victim had just finished his miting de avance and was walking back to his parked car when the unidentified suspect, who allegedly pretended to be asking for alcoholic beverage from the victim, walked alongside him,” Abril said. The post Aspiring village chief gunned down appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»