MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday declared the 2025 national and local elections as “generally peaceful,” with no major security incidents reported across the country — despite nearly 30 confirmed cases of vote buying.

As polling precincts closed, PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said police nationwide remained on full alert and responded to minor glitches and complaints without significant disruption to the electoral process.

“There were no major incidents that compromised public safety or the integrity of the elections,” Marbil said in a press briefing. “The conduct of the polls has been largely orderly.”

The PNP acknowledged minor technical and logistical issues such as malfunctioning vote-counting machines, delays in precinct openings, and problems locating voter names on lists. These were resolved on the ground by election officials, according to the police.

More than 205,000 personnel — including 163,621 police officers — were deployed across the country to secure voting centers, with additional support from the military, coast guard, and fire protection bureau.

Vote buying persists

Although the elections proceeded without major security threats, the PNP reported 28 vote buying incidents across multiple regions involving at least 68 individuals.

Of those linked to the reported cases, 19 were arrested while 22 remain at large. Several cases are still under investigation, and at least eight have already been dismissed. Others are still for formal filing or awaiting further evidence.

Vote buying is prohibited under the Omnibus Election Code and carries criminal penalties, yet remains a recurring issue during elections. The PNP said it would continue pursuing those involved and warned that influence or political clout would not exempt anyone from prosecution.

“Even if you’re powerful or influential, if you’re caught buying votes, you will be arrested and charged,” Marbil said.

The police force’s “Kontra Bigay” campaign, launched ahead of the elections to deter illegal cash distribution and vote solicitation, will remain in effect until the completion of canvassing and proclamation.