MANILA, Philippines- Binigyang-diin ng Commission on Human Rights (CHR) ang kahalagahan ng pagproteka sa pagiging sagrado ng mga balota para sa darating na midterm polls.
Para sa CHR, suportado nito ang Senate bill na naglalayong palakasin ang Section 261 ng Omnibus Election Code sa pamamagitan ng pagtukoy sa cyber vote-buying at vote-selling.
“Vote-buying and vote-selling have long undermined the democratic process,” pahayag ng CHR nitong Miyerkules.
“It is imperative to protect the sanctity of the ballot and ensure that electoral choices are made free from monetary influence, safeguarding the future of our nation in the hands of genuine public servants,” dagdag nito.
“The CHR commends Senator Grace Poe for championing this legislation and urges its swift passage.”
Nilalayon ng panukala ni Poe na palawigin ang kahulugan ng vote-buying at vote-selling upang saklawin ang mga transaksyong isinagawa sa pamamagitan ng electronic means, kabilang ang websites, software, online banking, at money remittance applications.
Sa ilalim ng panukala, maaaring maharap ang mga lumabag sa anim hanggang 10 na taong pagkakakulong, na walang posibilidad ng probation.
“The CHR supports this measure as it reinforces the integrity of every Filipino’s right to vote,” wika ng komisyon.
“It is a significant step toward ensuring a cleaner, more transparent and more credible electoral process—even in the digital sphere,” dagdag nito. RNT/SA
