Former Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate is demanding an immediate congressional investigation into alleged voting irregularities surrounding SOCOTECO II’s proposed joint venture with Ignite Power, warning that consumers’ right to decide the electric cooperative’s future could be compromised.
Zarate urged lawmakers to pursue the inquiry even during the congressional break, citing reports that barangay officials, health workers and purok leaders were being tapped to collect proxy authorizations and influence the plebiscite.
“This is a direct assault on the democratic rights of the member-consumer-owners of SOCOTECO II,” Zarate said. “We cannot afford to wait for the Congress session to resume; the integrity of the cooperative is at stake right now.”
The Protect SOCOTECO II Coalition has formally asked the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s Region XII office to conduct a fact-finding investigation into allegations of vote-buying and improper collection of proxy authorizations.
At stake, Zarate said, is whether member-consumer-owners can make a free and informed choice about an agreement that would affect the management of their electric cooperative.
“The involvement of public officials in railroading a plebiscite for a private-led venture is highly irregular and demands an immediate inquiry,” he said.
Zarate called on the DILG and relevant House committees to examine the reported involvement of local government personnel and determine whether their positions were used to pressure consumers or secure support for the agreement.
The proposed venture has drawn opposition from residents and church leaders. Thousands have reportedly joined prayer rallies, while Bishops Cerilo Casicas and Gerardo Alminaza have raised concerns about the deal’s transparency and the integrity of the approval process.
Zarate warned against allowing corporate interests to override the voice of the cooperative’s members, saying SOCOTECO II was built through the contributions of the communities it serves.
“This is a litmus test for accountability,” he said. “If barangay officials are indeed weaponizing their positions to secure a ‘yes’ vote through coercion or inducement, they must be held liable.”
He said any investigation should prioritize protecting member-consumer-owners and establishing whether the plebiscite reflects their actual wishes.
“The people of General Santos and surrounding areas deserve a fair process, not a pre-arranged outcome that prioritizes corporate profit over public service,” Zarate said.
