Photo courtesy: NBI
IN a dramatic sting operation, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) arrested six individuals on May 8, allegedly attempting to rig vote-counting machines in Iba, Zambales, to ensure the victory of a mayoral candidate.
The operation, which unfolded at a Quezon City hotel, followed a report by Iba mayoral candidate Atty. Genaro Montefalcon, who claimed he was offered the services of the group in exchange for a substantial bribe.
According to the NBI’s press release, Montefalcon was contacted in April by Teody Abalos and Cherrylyn Adriano. The pair, boasting connections within the Commission on Elections (Comelec), proposed to guarantee Montefalcon’s win for a fee of P30 million.
Abalos further amplified his claims by asserting a familial connection to prominent political figures, identifying himself as the nephew of senatorial candidate Benhur Abalos and grandson of former Comelec chair Benjamin Abalos. These claims are currently under investigation.
Following Montefalcon’s report to the Comelec, the case was swiftly transferred to the NBI. A meticulously planned entrapment operation, involving the NBI Special Task Force, led to the arrests.
The suspects, who demanded a P15 million down payment, were apprehended immediately after receiving the marked money. Three were arrested in the hotel lobby, and three more were taken into custody in a hotel room.
Those arrested and facing charges of estafa, usurpation of authority, and violations of the Automated Election System Law include Roland Ucab, Teody Abalos, Joseph Ong, Cherrylyn Adriano, Ralp Edward Salas, and Francis James Mapua.
The NBI is currently investigating the extent of the group’s alleged connections and potential involvement in other election-related irregularities. Further investigations are underway.
