MANILA, Philippines—The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has authorized warrantless arrests for individuals caught in the act of vote-buying, vote-selling, and abuse of state resources (ASR) during electoral exercises.

“Any law enforcement officer may, without a warrant, arrest a person when, in his or her presence, the person to be arrested has committed, is actually committing, or is attempting to commit the election offense of vote-buying and vote-selling, or acts constituting ASR,” states Comelec Resolution 11104, which was promulgated on January 28 and made public Monday.

“The person arrested without a warrant shall be forthwith delivered to the nearest police station or jail and shall be proceeded against,” it said.

Under the resolution, authorities are also mandated to seize money, goods, and campaign materials linked to the offenses. 

These items must be properly documented, photographed, and marked in the presence of the arrested individual and any available witnesses.

Law enforcement officers are required to maintain a record of the movement and custody of confiscated items, ensuring compliance with existing laws.

Vote-buying, as defined by the Omnibus Election Code, involves offering money or anything of value to influence a person’s vote, while vote-selling refers to accepting such offers in exchange for voting for or against a candidate. 

ASR encompasses the misuse of government resources—including public funds, personnel, and media—to gain electoral advantage.