Bohol Third District congressional candidate Atty. Mc Aldous “Makdo” Castañares has raised alarm about potential widespread vote buying ahead of May’s elections, though he declined to provide specific details during a media interview.
Speaking with Ardy Araneta-Batoy over DYTR, Castañares expressed dismay over the prospect of vote buying, saying that such funds often originate from taxpayer money.
“It’s a cause for alarm,” Castañares said. “The people are essentially being fried in their own fats.”
According to Castañares, who will try to unseat incumbent Rep. Alexie Tutor, intelligence reports suggest certain political factions may be prepared to deplete financial reserves to purchase votes.
He claimed some parties might be willing to take extreme measures to maintain their grip on power.
Castañares voiced strong support for anti-vote buying crusade, describing the practice as “the source of all forms of corruption in government.”
He noted the Catholic Church’s consistent opposition to vote buying and selling.
“If we don’t act now, future generations will hold us accountable for failing to stand against corruption,” Castañares said.
The candidate advocated for expanded voter education programs, acknowledging efforts already underway by the Church and various civic organizations.
He expressed hope that voters would recognize the harmful impact of vote buying and reject monetary offers in exchange for their votes.
Castañares also mourned on calls for “zero votes” against candidates aligned with former President Rodrigo Duterte in Bohol’s third district, lamenting the political divide between Duterte and Marcos supporters.
“There’s a faction determined to see Duterte candidates lose in the upcoming elections,” Castañares said.
He claimed these anti-Duterte campaigns would be heavily financed, while “Duterte candidates have no money.”
Castañares noted that his commitment to public service is not financially motivated but rather focused on promoting good governance and combating corruption.
He stressed the importance of educating voters about the dangers of vote buying and selling to prevent corruption from flourishing.
Election officials have yet to comment on Castañares’ allegations of potential vote buying schemes.