Comelec implements money ban in Western Visayas to stop vote buying

A "money ban" is set to take effect in Western Visayas starting Saturday, May 10, 2025, prohibiting individuals from possessing over PHP500,000 along with campaign materials, which will be considered evidence of vote buying.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will implement this ban for the first time, aiming to curb vote buying during the election period.

Checkpoints will be heightened across the region to enforce the ban, with police personnel following specific protocols.

Individuals whose jobs naturally involve handling large sums of money, such as cashiers or treasurers, are exempted but must provide proof of their employment.

Previously, individuals caught with large amounts of money intended for distribution were released due to the absence of a money ban.

Comelec reminds candidates, political parties, leaders, and supporters that vote buying is an election offense, and possessing PHP500,000 with campaign materials is now illegal and can lead to legal action.