A viral video showing two poll watchers shading ballots for voters in a precinct in Abra has sparked outrage and prompted immediate action from the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
Comelec Chairperson George Garcia confirmed on Monday that the two watchers have been removed from their posts and will face charges for violating election protocols. The video, which has circulated widely on social media, captures the two individuals filling out ballots on behalf of voters, even after allegedly being told to stop.
“Watchers have no right, no authority, and are not authorized to act as assistors in any precinct,” Garcia said in a press briefing. He emphasized that the role of poll watchers is strictly observational and that any attempt to interfere with the voting process is a serious breach of election law.
Under Philippine election rules, only members of the Electoral Board are permitted to assist voters, such as senior citizens, persons with disabilities, or those who are illiterate, and only if they are unaccompanied. Garcia reiterated this rule, highlighting that unauthorized assistance can be classified as an election offense.
“This act of representing oneself as authorized to shade someone else’s ballot is strictly prohibited,” Garcia explained. “Such violations carry penalties ranging from one to six years imprisonment.”
The incident has drawn strong public reactions, with many calling for stricter enforcement of poll regulations. Voters and watchdog groups have expressed concern that even isolated cases of misconduct can undermine public trust in the integrity of the elections.
Comelec has vowed to pursue legal action against the individuals involved and reiterated its commitment to protecting the sanctity of the vote. Garcia assured the public that any form of electoral irregularity, no matter how minor, would be dealt with firmly.
The commission has also issued a reminder to all poll watchers and electoral personnel to strictly adhere to their assigned roles. “The voting process must remain transparent and fair,” Garcia added. “There is no room for any action that could compromise that.”
WTF???? What is this? Nakakahiya kayoooo @COMELEC ano na??? This is not allowed right? ma disqualified sana kandidato ng nga watcher na ito, ang trabaho po ng watcher ay to observe the voters not to shade on behalf of the voters. #Halalan2025 pic.twitter.com/nxEib54DGP
— Bingsue (@Bingsueee_18) May 12, 2025
As the investigation proceeds, Comelec urges citizens to continue documenting and reporting suspicious activities at polling stations to ensure accountability.