Palace to public: Report poll offenses using mobile phones

Malacañang is urging the public to use their mobile phones and other gadgets to report election- related offenses this campaign season.

The Palace made the call following reports that a government vehicle was being used for the campaign of administration standard-bearer Manuel Roxas II.

Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office Undersecretary Manuel Quezon III said it would be up to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to investigate the report.

“The Comelec has the duty and the power to investigate and get to the bottom of all election-related offenses. We do not consent to any such abuse. All we ask is for the investigation to be done in a proper and fair manner and expeditiously,” Quezon said.

He said those found to have committed election offenses must be punished as soon as the investigation is over.

Quezon appealed to candidates and supporters not to disregard the law and the people to report violations immediately.

He said social media has made people vigilant and aware of issues surrounding them.

“That is one of the effects of the EDSA people power revolution. Let us not forget that we do not just accept what others say. We all have our own minds, views and disposition,” he said.

Quezon also urged the Comelec to consider the people’s opposition to its decision not to print the voters’ verified paper audit trail receipts.

Senatorial aspirants Richard Gordon and Greco Belgica questioned the move before the Supreme Court, but the Comelec maintained it would likely affect the timetable for the May elections as well as incur additional expenses.

“The important thing is that the Comelec disclosed its plans and there is time for citizens to be heard and make their feelings known. We can only ask the poll body to explain and consider the views of ordinary citizens,” Quezon said.