The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) 5 successfully held the ninth episode of its Balangibog series at the Activity Center of SM City Legazpi on 19 March 2025. The episode featured Atty. Maria Juana S. Valeza, Regional Election Director of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) V and was hosted by Atty. Magdalena A. Borbe-Mallari and Atty. Camille Astrid O. Britanico of the DILG 5’s Legal Unit.

Titled “Usapang Kontra Bigay at Pag-abuso sa Paggamit ng Yaman ng Bansa sa Panahon ng Halalan,” the discussion focused on critical issues such as vote buying, vote selling, and the abuse of state resources during elections, as outlined in COMELEC Resolution No. 11104. This timely and pertinent topic was especially relevant as the 2025 National Elections draw near.

The program commenced with a Welcome Message from Atty. Arnaldo E. Escober Jr., CESO III, Regional Director of DILG 5, followed by the main interview segment. The event also included an interactive open forum, where students from Bicol University and Bicol College, along with invited members of the press, were given the opportunity to engage with the speakers. The open forum was moderated by Ms. Ana-Liza S. Macatangay, PhD, Officer-in-Charge and Regional Director of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA).

The session concluded with a closing message from DILG 5 Assistant Regional Director Jhoaden G. Lucero, CESO IV, who emphasized the importance of preserving the integrity of the electoral process.

DILG 5’s Balangibog episode underscored the department’s commitment to ensuring fair and clean elections through public dialogue and awareness.