Baguio City: The Commission on Elections in the Cordillera Administrative Region (Comelec-CAR) on Monday urged the public to report violations in the "Kontra Bigay" campaign, the government initiative to curb bribery ahead of the May 12 elections.

According to Philippines News Agency, Comelec-CAR Director Julius Torres, in a media interview, encouraged the public to assist by submitting information, photographs, and other details that could lead to an investigation. He assured that the identities of informants would be protected to allay fears of potential reprisals.

Torres highlighted that while they have been receiving information on such violations, the details provided were insufficient to identify the 'buyers' and 'sellers' of votes, as well as the timeframe of these supposed violations. "We need data that will be enough to establish the identity of persons in the photograph, where and when it happened, and other pertinent information," Torres stated.

He emphasized the importance of cooperation from all sectors, particularly the community, which is directly involved in the election process. "We cannot do this alone. We need the public's vigilance. Our leadership is very much determined to pursue and prosecute cases against the violators as a way of improving the election process in the country," he added.

With the campaign period for local candidates set to start on March 28, the Comelec renewed its call for active public participation to ensure the success and integrity of the midterm elections.