Worker seeks disqualification of Cebu lawmaker, 7 others over alleged vote-buying

Cebu 4th District Representative Janice Salimbangon says the complaint is a political harassment

CEBU, Philippines – A local government employee in Santa Fe, Cebu, has filed a complaint with the Commission on Elections, seeking the disqualification of Cebu 4th District Representative Janice Salimbangon and seven other candidates over alleged vote-buying during a recent aid distribution event. 

Ellen Mae Esgana, an employee of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, accused Salimbangon and the other candidates of campaigning while present at the distribution of Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) at the covered court in Barangay Talisay.

Named in the complaint, a copy of which was provided to Rappler, were Salimbangon, candidates for provincial board members Nelson Mondigo and Jenny Armamento, Santa Fe mayoral candidate Joannes Paulo Esgana, and candidates for town councilors Rogelito Cabrera, Cruz Bragat, Dante Escarlan, and Edmundo Cabrera.

Rappler reached out to Salimbangon and Mondigo through their Facebook pages on Wednesday, May 7, but did not get a response. Salimbangon, however, told Cebu-based daily The Freeman that the complaint was a political harassment, and she is confident it would be dismissed.

The complainant provided photos and video clips as evidence of campaigning during the aid distribution.

Esgana also attached to her complaint a letter from Department of Social Welfare and Development VII Director Shalaine Marie Lucero. In the letter, Lucero asked Santa Fe town for assistance in the distribution of aid and specified the Comelec prohibition on the display and distribution of campaign paraphernalia, as well as the playing of jingles and other election materials. 

Lucero also specified in the letter that elective officials and candidates should not be present during the distribution.

Esgana sought “a declaration of probable cause to charge the respondents with violating the election code’s prohibition on vote-buying” and their immediate disqualification from the May 12 elections.

“No one should use the poverty and vulnerability of our people as a campaign strategy. Government aid must serve its rightful purpose – not as a currency for votes,” read a statement from Esgana.

In February, Salimbangon and 12 other candidates were also sought to be disqualified over their attendance during the AICS and Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers aid distribution.

Salimbangon is running for reelection against Daanbantayan Mayor Sun Shimura. – Rappler.com