NOW that many have filed their certificates of candidacy, what are they allowed and not allowed to do under election laws?
According to Cebu City election officer Marchel Sarno, aspirants can “do anything” since regulation will only begin at the start of the campaign period on Feb. 12.
“They can do anything. Dili pa regulated ang ilang campaigning, at the start of the campaign period pa,” he said.
Promulgated last Oct. 1, Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution 10429 provides the calendar of activities and periods of prohibited acts in connection with the May 13, 2019 national and local elections.
Once the election period from January 13 to June 12, 2019 starts, the bearing, carrying or transporting of firearms or other deadly weapons is prohibited unless authorized in writing by the Comelec.
The use of security personnel or bodyguards by candidates, unless authorized in writing by the Comelec, is also prohibited.
The organization of reaction or strike forces and the suspension of elective local officials is also not allowed during this period.
The campaign period will be from Feb. 12 to May 11, 2019.
Bets, however, are prohibited from campaigning during Holy Thursday (March 28) and Good Friday (March 29).
Candidates are also not allowed to give gifts in cash or in kind and appoint or use confidential agents or special police officers during this period.
From March 29 to May 12, the appointment or hiring of new employees, the creation or filling of new positions and the promotion or giving of salary increases are prohibited.
Other prohibited activities during this period include the construction of public works, delivery of materials for public works, issuance of treasury warrant and disbursement of public funds.
Candidates are banned from campaigning abroad from April 13 to May 13.
At the eve of the election day, the selling, buying, serving and taking of intoxicating liquor will be prohibited along with the giving and accepting of free transportation, food or things of value.
During the election day on May 13, campaigning, voting more than once or in substitution of another is prohibited.
Other prohibited activities during this day include soliciting votes or undertaking any propaganda for or against a candidate or political party, opening of booths or stalls for the sale of refreshment within a radius of 30 meters from the polling place, and the holding of fairs, cockfights, boxing or any other similar sports. (RTF)