BUTUAN CITY – The European Union (EU) Election Observation Mission has highlighted the persistent issue of vote-buying during the 2025 Philippine midterm elections, calling it “endemic and entrenched.” According to Marta Temido, the chief observer, reports and observations from EU poll monitors confirmed widespread vote-buying practices, including the distribution of cash, goods, and government aid.
She emphasized that this practice is deeply rooted in poverty, where people may see small financial or material offerings as tangible benefits amidst daily struggles. EU Deputy Chief Observer Manuel Sanchez de Nogues also noted that vote-buying was reported in several provinces, including Bohol, Davao Oriental, and Zamboanga del Sur.
Despite these challenges, the EU observers commended the high voter turnout on May 12, which they described as a positive reflection of the Filipino people’s strong commitment to democracy.
The EU team recognized that while electoral violence was lower compared to previous elections, it remains unacceptable, with 10 reported deaths and 30 cases of violence on election day. Temido and EU Parliament member Vladimir Prebilic also voiced concern over the last-minute decision by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to deny EU observers access to polling precincts, which they considered a breach of their agreement.
Looking ahead, the EU mission urged the Philippine government to consider reforms in the electoral system, particularly the outdated Omnibus Election Code, which has been in place since 1985.
Prebilic suggested that modernizing the legal framework could help address long-standing issues like vote-buying and political dynasties, which continue to dominate the political landscape. Despite these challenges, the EU team expressed respect for the democratic spirit of the Filipino people and their dedication to the electoral process.
