In a resolute move to safeguard the integrity of the upcoming May 12 elections, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has issued a directive to all police personnel to fully engage with the ‘Kontra Bigay’ campaign. This initiative, which aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s goal for transparent and equitable elections, was launched by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on February 7, 2025, in Intramuros, Manila.
Marbil emphasized the PNP’s dedication to not just enforcing but also embodying the principles of the ‘Kontra Bigay’ campaign. He stated, ‘As we approach the 2025 elections, the PNP is steadfast in its mission to uphold the sanctity of the voting process. Our officers will not only execute but also fully embrace the ‘Kontra Bigay’ campaign, ensuring a transparent, honest, and fair election for all Filipino voters.’
The ‘Kontra Bigay’ campaign, now in its enhanced version 2.0, aims to combat vote buying and selling more effectively. It empowers law enforcement agencies, including the PNP, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), to monitor, verify, and act decisively against electoral malpractices. Under this initiative, any suspected acts of vote buying or selling, such as the distribution of money, goods, or campaign materials to sway voters, will be closely watched, with immediate arrests possible without warrants.
Marbil has ordered all police units across the country to ramp up their surveillance efforts, engage in public education campaigns, and collaborate closely with Comelec to investigate and respond to reports of electoral fraud. He urged the public to participate actively and report any instances of vote buying or selling to the authorities, reinforcing the PNP’s commitment to law enforcement.
Under Article 12 of the Omnibus Election Code, vote buying and selling are serious offenses that can lead to imprisonment from one to six years. Complaints can be lodged at Comelec’s main office or at designated ‘Kontra Bigay’ centers throughout the nation.