Digital wallet and online banking companies warned by COMELEC about vote-buying

In connection to next month’s Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) turned to operators of digital wallets and online banking and warned them about digital vote-buying, according to a Manila Times news report.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Manila Times news report. Some parts in boldface…

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) warned electronic wallet operators they could be involved in vote-buying cases if they allow candidates in the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) to use their apps to buy votes.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia said over the weekend that the agency has already informed GCash, Maya and other companies involved in mobile payment services that they may face charges for conspiracy to commit vote-buying.

Garcia said they advised the companies to monitor high-volume transactions, especially in the days prior to election day. The companies were also told to be suspicious when money is sent to 50 to 200 people in one day.

“A red flag would be if someone sent a certain amount of money to a large number of recipients,” Garcia pointed out.

He said companies involved in digital wallets and online banking have vowed to support Comelec’s efforts against vote-buying.

The poll body intends to sign a memorandum of agreement with e-wallet companies, Garcia said.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the COMELEC did the right thing to ensure the credibility of the BSKE? Do you think this new move by the COMELEC will prevent vote-buying from happening?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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