The referendum was marked by rampant bribery and terrorism by armed goons in the Cojuangco-Aquino clan's employ in order to manipulate the voting and make it appear that the farmers favored the SDO.
Lansakan ang naging panunuhol at pananakot ng mga armadong goons ng mga Cojuangco-Aquino para manipulahin ang botohan at palabasing mayorya ng mga magsasaka ang may gusto ng SDO.