By Ferdinand Patinio
MANILA – Disqualification complaints have been filed before the Commission on Elections (Comelec) against a congressional candidate in Quezon City and two local candidates in Laguna over alleged vote-buying and misuse of government resources.
Two separate petitions were lodged Thursday against Rose Nono Lin, who is making a second attempt to represent Quezon City’s 5th congressional district.
She is accused of illegal campaigning on Maundy Thursday (April 17) and of violating the Omnibus Election Code (OEC).
Petitioner Ligaya Sta. Ana alleged that Lin’s campaign team set up a tent near Nova Plaza Mall in Novaliches on Maundy Thursday, where they distributed free refreshments and directly solicited votes from the public.
“In effect, her campaign team transformed a solemn religious holiday meant for prayer and reflection into an opportunity for electioneering,” she said.
“This coordinated act directly linked the giving of a benefit (refreshments to quench thirst in the summer heat) with an appeal for votes. In doing so, Rose Lin not only engaged in prohibited campaigning but also effectively offered material inducement to voters,” the petitioner added.
A second complainant, Karen Altar, accused Lin’s supporters of engaging in vote-buying from March 29 to April 21. The petition stated that attendees at several events—including Altar herself—were given free rice, cash, and campaign materials.
“The distribution of money and material considerations by Lin or her representatives during the campaign period appears to be systematic and targeted at influencing voters’ decisions,” the petition added.
Lin is also known for her previous association with the controversial Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corporation, which was implicated in alleged corruption during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Meanwhile, in Laguna, disqualification petitions were also filed Thursday against incumbent Governor Ramil Hernandez and wife, 2nd District Rep. Ruth Hernandez by a private citizen identified as Celito Baron.
Baron alleged that the couple, who are switching positions in the upcoming election, engaged in vote-buying by handing out t-shirts with their images, food, bottled water, and envelopes containing PHP2,000 during a poll watchers’ orientation and training session.
The petition also accused the couple of using government-issued health cards, known as “blue cards,” to secure voter support. (PNA)
