Comelec suspends P273M aid programs in Batangas over vote buying fears

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has suspended the implementation of various financial assistance programs worth P273 million proposed by Batangas Gov. Hermilando Mandanas, citing concerns of possible vote buying.

In an en banc decision issued on April 21, the Comelec revoked the exemption previously granted to the Batangas provincial government, which would have allowed the aid distribution during the election period.

The poll body has also tasked its Law Department with investigating the allegations raised by the group Progressive Allied Batangueños (PAB), who filed a complaint against the recommendation to approve Mandanas' request for exemption from the election spending ban.

The suspended programs include Aid to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) and Cash for Work (P16.71 million), Emergency Assistance Service under the 20 percent Development Fund (P23.1 million), Job Fair (P150,000), Employment Assistance Program (P800,000), Assistance for youth sports activities (P32.46 million), Cash for Work for typhoon "Kristine" victims and Taal Volcano evacuees (P5 million), Hot Meals for disaster victims (P5 million), and Scholarship and Educational Assistance (P190 million).

The investigation's findings will be submitted to the en banc for further review.