Electoral Inducements and Voter Decision-Making: Patterns and Influences in a Philippine City
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69569/jip.2026.173Keywords:
Clientelism, Electoral inducements, Philippine elections, Vote buying, Voting behaviorAbstract
Vote buying remains a persistent challenge in Philippine elections, raising concerns about democratic integrity despite existing legal safeguards. This study examined how and why vote buying continues and its influence on voter decision-making in a local context. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, the research combined quantitative and qualitative data from 395 registered voters across ten urban and rural barangays in Urdaneta City, Pangasinan, Philippines. Data were gathered through survey questionnaires and follow-up interviews, and analyzed using descriptive statistics and appropriate tests of differences and associations. Results show that transactional inducements, such as cash and goods, are widely observed and normalized in local elections, but have limited influence on actual voting decisions. In contrast, programmatic inducements—such as promises of employment, education, and social services—are perceived as more influential, indicating a preference for long-term benefits. Most socio demographic variables showed no significant relationship with participation in vote buying, except for religious affiliation. Qualitative findings suggest that economic conditions shape voters’ openness to electoral incentives, though these do not necessarily determine voting behavior. The study concludes that vote buying persists as a normalized, yet complex practice shaped by socio-economic and political factors. It highlights the coexistence of transactional and programmatic motivations in electoral behavior and underscores the need for stronger governance, voter education, and structural reforms to enhance electoral integrity.
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