Comelec seeks Mitra explanation over free movie tickets

The Commission on Elections has issued Palawan Third District congressional candidate Abraham Mitra a show cause order over a potential vote-buying violation after he allegedly offered free movie tickets in a Facebook post.

In its order, the Comelec said the post may constitute a violation of Section 261(a)(2) of Batas Pambansa Blg. 881, or the Omnibus Election Code, as enforced under Section 26(b) of Comelec Resolution No. 11104, which pertains to presumed vote-buying and vote-selling.

“The commission of the following acts, along with the possession of campaign materials and other corroborative evidence, shall be presumed to be vote-buying and vote-selling... offering or promising something of value in consideration for someone’s vote,” the Comelec stated.

According to the poll body, Mitra’s April 2, 2025 Facebook post showed that, while running as a candidate for the House of Representatives, he offered free movie tickets to the public.

Additionally, the Comelec noted that on April 4, 2025, Mitra posted photos from a block screening of the same movie, where he was present alongside supporters and other individuals.

Mitra has been given three days from receipt of the order to explain why he should not face a complaint for an election offense or a petition for disqualification.

GMA News Online has sought comment from Mitra and will publish his response once available. — DVM, GMA Integrated News

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