Marikina mayoral bet denies vote-buying raps

(UPDATE) MARIKINA mayoral candidate, Rep. Marjorie Ann Teodoro dismissed as "politically motivated" the vote-buying charges hurled against her and Mayor Marcelino Teodoro.

"There is absolutely no truth to the allegation of vote buying. The case filed against us is politically motivated," she said.

Teodoro argued that "the individual behind it is openly identified with our opponent — that speaks volumes about the intent."

Representative Teodoro also questioned the "timing" of the filing of the case.

"The timing, filed in the final stretch of the campaign, makes it apparent that this is a last resort to distract voters and derail our candidacy just days before the May 12 elections," she said.

Earlier, the Commission on Elections served show-cause orders for the Teodoros, asking them to explain allegations of vote buying and abuse of state resources in Marikina.

The orders stemmed from a complaint dated May 5 that the alleged vote-buying activities happened from April 28 to May 1 — particularly financial assistance or medical assistance programs to various communities in Marikina.

"We urge Marikina residents to not believe [unsubstantiated] allegations. We remain focused on the issues that matter to the people of Marikina," she added.