After losing the congressional election in Taguig’s first district, two of Lino Cayetano’s closest allies are now facing serious charges for violating election laws by campaigning on social media just hours before voters cast their ballots.
The complaint, filed with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), cites Raymond “Mon” Salve, a member of Lino’s close-in security team, and Maryruth Roven “Beng” Maximo, a former SK Federation President and long-time Lino supporter. The two reportedly posted identical campaign materials on Facebook on May 12, 2025—the day of the national and local elections.
The posts contained statements designed to sway voters:
“Hindi disqualified at nasa balota. #LabanLino”
“Independiente.
Walang Makinarya.
Walang Padrino.
pero nandito siya, lumalaban para sa karaniwang tao.”
“To all my friends in District 1 – Taguig and Pateros — choose a leader who delivers. Direk Lino has a strong track record, a clear platform, and real experience, especially during the pandemic. Proven leadership when it mattered most!”
“Vote Direk Lino Cayetano for Congressman of Taguig District 1 and Pateros.”
According to the complaint-affidavit, Salve and Maximo violated Section 5 of Republic Act No. 7166, in relation to the Fair Election Act (RA 9006) and COMELEC Resolutions Nos. 10999 and 11086. These regulations explicitly prohibit any form of partisan political activity—including social media posts—on May 11 and 12, commonly referred to as the “silent period”.
The complaint emphasizes that their acts fall under the definition of “online campaigning,” which includes texts, images, and combinations thereof posted to sway voter preference.
The respondents’ materials highlighted Lino’s ballot name and number, and repeated talking points designed to undermine disqualification narratives and generate sympathy.
The publication materials, according to the affidavit, were “not random expressions,” but were strategically crafted and timed to encourage voters in the First District of Taguig to still vote for Lino. The move, the complaint says, was designed to “condition the minds of voters” and sway last-minute decisions, in direct defiance of election law.
The complaint claims these posts were public, widely visible, and shared, adding to their potential reach and influence during a legally protected period.
Although Lino himself is not named in the complaint, his proximity to both Salve and Maximo raises serious questions about the conduct of those around him—and whether such actions were carried out with his knowledge or consent.
COMELEC is expected to conduct a preliminary investigation. If sufficient grounds are found, criminal charges may be filed, with penalties that include imprisonment and disqualification from holding public office, as provided under Sections 263 and 264 of the Omnibus Election Code.
