DILG receives 158 election offense complaints

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reported that 158 complaints related to vote-buying, vote-selling, and abuse of state resources have been filed with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) so far.

Of the total complaints, 16 specifically involve the distribution of financial assistance or 'ayuda' during the election period, which is prohibited by Comelec Resolution 11104.

The DILG highlighted that distributing 'ayuda' by candidates, their relatives, or supporters is presumed to be an act of vote-buying.

DILG Secretary Juanito Victor 'Jonvic' C. Remulla supports the Comelec's 'Kontra Bigay' campaign and advocates for a complementary 'Kontra Tanggap' effort to address both the giver and receiver in electoral misconduct.

Region IV-A leads with the highest number of complaints at 31, followed by Region III with 30, and the National Capital Region with 24.

In response to these reports, the Comelec has issued show cause orders to 29 local candidates, requiring them to formally respond to the allegations against them.