As the campaign period for the May 14 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections kicked off Friday, candidates are reminded about the prohibited acts until the Election Day.
During this period, candidates can use any strategies or gimmicks to edge out their opponents, but hopefully, they won’t resort to any illegal acts to get the voters’ support.
Among the prohibited acts issued by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) include the appointment or use of special policemen, and special or confidential agents; use of armored land, water, or air craft such as military type tanks, half trucks, scout trucks, armored trucks; public officials or candidates' use of bodyguards or security guards unless their life and security are in jeopardy as the poll body only has the jurisdiction to assign a maximum of three body guards for those who can avail of security services; construction or maintenance of village-funded roads and bridges; appointment of new employees, creation of new position, promotion, giving of salary increases, remuneration or privileges; and selling, furnishing, offering, buying, serving or taking intoxicated liquor.
Giving and accepting free transportation, food, drinks and things of value are also prohibited on the eve of Election Day.
The poll body also urged the candidates to maintain fair elections.
The candidates are reminded to avoid overspending, as the aspirant can only spend P5 for every voter in his or her locality.
It is also forbidden for the aspirants to engage in election propaganda.
Let’s ensure free, honest and credible elections next week.