Friday, April 07, 2007 Barangay officials advised to go slow in campaigning By Allen V. Estabillo
THE Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Commission on Elections (Comelec) advised barangay officials in Southwestern Mindanao to "go slow" in campaigning for candidates in the coming May 14 elections.
Nelson Baluran, local government operations officer of DILG Southwestern Mindanao, reminded barangay officials that their mandate provides that they remain non-partisan and should not endorse any political candidate during elections.
"They may be held liable and face some hefty penalties if caught participating in any partisan activity," he said.
Barangay officials may only participate in any partisan activity during the election period if they are on official leave of absence.
Baluran said their office will monitor the activities of barangay officials in the area to make sure that they strictly follow their mandate.
Lawyer Lilian Radam, Comelec-South Cotabato supervisor, said barangay officials should be careful not to show their political color during the campaign period and the Election Day.
"I understand that we cannot really stop them from aligning with politicians since most of them are actually acting as their point persons. But they should be careful because it might be a big headache for them later on," she said.
Radam said barangay officials may be charged and penalized for electioneering activities by any resident.
"So my advice for them is to go slow on partisan activities and leave the campaigning to the politicians," she said.
Meantime, Radam said they will open their office and their communication lines to residents or concerned watchdogs for possible violations that may be committed by some candidates.
She urged residents to be vigilant and alert against fraudulent activities by politicians like vote buying and violation of campaign rules and regulations.
Radam said residents should also watch out for candidates who might distribute donations, grants or gifts during the campaign period.
"Candidates, their husbands or wives, children and the secretary of a political party are not allowed to give any donation, especially in the form of money or cash, to the voters while campaigning," she added.
