AFTER admitting that it is powerless against premature campaigning activities, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) is now singing a different tune when it comes to electioneering activities of aspirants in the May 2019 polls.

Speaking at a media forum in Manila, Comelec Spokesman James Jimenez urged would-be candidates to use their funds in “purposeful” activities, beginning with the forthcoming All Souls' Day.

“We all know that those running, they do take advantage of every single social event imaginable. So they would. Hopefully, if they do that, channel it in a good way,” said Jimenez.

“If they do such activities, do so in purposeful ends... whatever it is, make it something relevant and useful,” he added.

The election official cited as an example those with a penchant of putting up tarpaulins during public holidays.

Instead of having tarpaulins bearing their faces with greetings to the people, Jimenez said it would be better if they would provide assistance to those heading back to the provinces.

“Instead of coming out with tarpaulins with their faces or them in Halloween costumes, why not put up roadside assistance for people going to provinces,” said Jimenez.

Earlier, the Comelec assailed “nearly all” those who filed their COCs for senator for already engaging in premature campaigning activities.

The commission, however, reiterated that it cannot do anything to stop aspirants from engaging in premature campaigning as there is no more law prohibiting it.

The Comelec, though, asked all would-be candidates to have some delicadeza in conducting electioneering activities. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)