Abuse of state resources cases now easy to prosecute

By Ernesto Delgado

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Commission on Elections (Comelec) said proving the crime of abuse of state resources (ASR) in the 2025 elections has become easier, leading to more convictions.

“We are only referring to documents as evidence. Without exemption from the Comelec, and if you did it during the campaign period, you are liable,” said Regional Election Director Maria Juana Valeza during a forum sponsored by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Tuesday in Legazpi City.

“I only need to establish three points to secure a conviction: a complainant, willing witnesses to testify, and strong evidence,” she said.

Valeza shared her experience, recalling that during her tenure as head of the Comelec Investigation and Prosecution Division, all members of Tacurong City’s legislative body, except the vice mayor, were convicted for illegally releasing funds.

“It’s not something that was widely reported, but I prosecuted the case. The large number of accused, including barangay officials, would have overcrowded the jail,” she said.

She added: “Right now, we have judicial convictions, but we cannot implement the decisions because they are not immediately executory.”

“They all appealed the decision to the Supreme Court,” she said.

Valeza said post-election audit reports from the Commission on Audit (COA) will expose incumbent officials who misused state resources to support their re-election campaigns.

“That’s why the COA is part of the committee that investigates candidates who violate the prohibition on ASR, vote-buying and vote-selling,” she said.

The ease of proving misuse of official funds has prompted the electoral body to strengthen its campaign against election-related misconduct.

“Our campaign on ASR is extensive because fewer people are aware of this crime,” she said.

“Hopefully, now that you and the candidates have witnessed the consequences, they will be more cautious,” she said.

DILG Regional Director Arnaldo Escober said the collaboration among the Comelec, DILG, civil society groups, the academe and other sectors will ensure elections are not marred by irregularities. (PIA 5/Masbate)