ILOILO – Authorities are investigating allegations of vote-buying in Barangay Pandan, Dueñas town following a heated confrontation between rival political groups just days before the May 12 midterm elections.
The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. on Friday, May 9, prompting an immediate response from the Dueñas Municipal Police Station (MPS), supported by the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 6 (RMFB6).
According to police reports, the alleged incident reportedly took place at the residence of a former local official.
Upon arriving at the scene, police found rival groups in a verbal altercation, which was quickly de-escalated to prevent further tension. However, police noted that despite the serious nature of the accusation, the group that complained was unable to present concrete evidence of vote-buying during the initial investigation.
“They brought individuals whom they identified as witnesses, but no physical or documentary evidence was provided on-site,” Dueñas police said.
Police advised the group to formally submit their complaints, along with any supporting evidence and witness statements, at the Dueñas Municipal Police Station for proper documentation and further investigation.
In the absence of tangible proof, no arrests were made at the time.
In response to the incident, the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) has also formed an investigative team to look into the allegations and determine whether charges can be filed. The public is also encouraged to come forward with any information or evidence that may aid in the investigation.
The IPPO reiterated that all police actions are governed by due process and legal standards. It stressed that any claims of election violations must be supported by evidence before legal action can be pursued./PN
