Comelec orders Mitra to explain vote-buying allegations

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued a show cause order to Palawan Third District congressional candidate Abraham Kahlil Blanco Mitra over potential vote-buying violations.

Mitra allegedly offered free movie tickets and held a block screening event, which the Comelec says may violate Section 261(a)(2) of Batas Pambansa Blg. 881 and Section 26(b) of Comelec Resolution No. 11104.

The poll body cited Mitra's Facebook posts from April 2 and April 4, where he advertised a free block showing of 'Sinagtala' at SM Puerto Princesa with bottled water and regular popcorn included.

Violators found guilty of committing an election offense face up to six years imprisonment under Section 261(a) of Batas Pambansa Blg. 881 or the Omnibus Election Code (OEC).

The Comelec gave Mitra three days from receipt to submit his explanation, warning that failure to comply will be considered a waiver of his right to be heard.

GMA News Online is awaiting Mitra's response.