By Jason De Asis
CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga – A woman was arrested in Nueva Ecija over the weekend after authorities discovered PHP1.65 million in cash inside her vehicle, raising suspicion that the money is being used for vote-buying two days before the May 12 polls.
The Science City of Muñoz Police Station personnel flagged down the woman’s car at a Commission on Elections checkpoint in Barangay Poblacion West around 9 a.m. Saturday, according to a report on Sunday.
While speaking with the driver identified as “Reg,” the police officers noticed a partially opened bag with bundles of cash inside the vehicle.
The woman, a married resident of Barangay Calipahan, Talavara, admitted that the bag contained PHP1.65 million but was unable to present documentation justifying the possession of such large amount.
The woman was immediately taken into police custody for investigation and possible filing of appropriate charges, including violation of Section 28 of Comelec Resolution No. 11104, which prohibits the transport or possession of money exceeding PHP500,000, along with campaign paraphernalia and/or corroborated evidence. The so-called money ban is in effect May 10 to 12.
Police Regional Office-Central Luzon Director Brig. General Jean Fajardo emphasized the significance of the arrest and the importance of strict law enforcement during the elections.
“The interception of such a large amount of cash during the election period is a serious matter that cannot be overlooked,” Fajardo said in a statement.
She called on the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement efforts to safeguard the credibility of the electoral process. She likewise urged citizens to report any suspicious activity that may compromise the fairness and security of the upcoming polls.
On Saturday, Fajardo inspected the Media Action Center and the Regional Election Monitoring Action Center to ensure full preparedness for real-time information dissemination and seamless coordination aimed at securing peaceful and orderly polls across Central Luzon.
“We are ensuring that our communication and monitoring hubs are fully operational, well-equipped, properly manned and ready to respond to any incident that may arise,” she said.
She underscored the importance of close coordination with the media and the public to promote transparency and build trust in the electoral process.
Fajardo appealed to journalists to practice responsible reporting and to avoid spreading misinformation that could disrupt public order.
“The media plays a critical role in informing the public with timely and truthful reports. Through our Media Action Center, we aim to make sure that accurate election updates from each province and municipality in the region reach our communities,” she added. (PNA)
