Investigation Launched for Potential Vote Buying Incident in Nabunturan, VM
A Mayoral Contender in Hot Water
Unraveling the alleged vote-buying scandal engulfing a candidate vying for the Vice Mayor position in Nabunturan, Davao de Oro—also an incumbent barangay captain.
Tension surges as a 22-wheeler truck loaded with thousands of sacks of rice, reportedly distributed outside the candidate's Purok 6, Barangay Manat residence on Tuesday, May 6, is now under investigation[1][2].
"We confiscated the white Howo trailer truck loaded with rice," reported Catherine Dela Rey, PRO-Davao spokesperson, at a recent Davao Peace and Security Press Corps media briefing. Scrambling recipients were caught off-guard, scattering upon the police's arrival[1].
Initial inquiries suggest the distribution was masterminded by the barangay captain's secretary, in collusion with the Barangay Police or Civilian Volunteer Organization (CVO) members[1].
Initially, the truck carried approximately 2,500 sacks of rice, with about 1,000 sacks already handed out, and the remaining 1,500 confiscated as evidence[1]. The truck driver was arrested on the spot, while the rice and the vehicle were secured for further investigation[1].
The incident could potentially breach Comelec Resolution No. 11104, which prohibits good distribution or financial aid during the campaign period to gain electoral advantage[3]. The resolution targets vote-buying, defined as promising anything of value to sway a voter's decision[3].
If proven guilty, this could lead to the candidate's disqualification, criminal charges, and imprisonment under the Omnibus Election Code[3]. Though the case remains under review, the suspected rice distribution is being probed to determine if it was politically motivated and linked to the candidate's campaign[2].
Investigators urge vigilance and encourage residents to collaborate in maintaining the integrity of the impending elections. Keep up-to-date with the latest developments relating to the May 12, 2025, National and Local Elections by following credible local or national news sources.
- The vote-buying scandal involving a Davao mayoral contender accusations has escalated, with the investigation of a 22-wheeler truck loaded with thousands of sacks of rice distributed outside Purok 6, Barangay Manat residence, potentially breaching Comelec regulations.
- As politics and general news surrounding the Mayoral election in Davao continue to unfold, crime-and-justice reports highlight the investigation of the rice distribution incident, which could lead to the candidate's disqualification if proven guilty under the Omnibus Election Code.
