The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Monday reiterated its call to candidates in the May 2025 elections that campaigning during the Holy Week, specifically Maundy Thursday (April 17) and Good Friday (April 18) is prohibited.
Under Resolution No. 10999, the Comelec said that all forms of election political activities during the two Holy Week holidays are banned.
The agency added that violators could be charged and penalized under Sections 263 and 264 of the Omnibus Election Code.
Candidates found violating the rule could face fines, imprisonment, or disqualification from holding public office, the poll body said.
Aside from ensuring fairness during the election season, Comelec Resolution No. 10999 aims to preserve the solemnity of Holy Week.
Thousands of Catholic faithful observe the Passion of the Christ in several areas across the country.
In the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, the annual Via Crucis or reenactment of the crucifixion will take place in three sites on Good Friday.
The Maleldo 2025 executive committee has banned showboats, election posters and distribution of campaign materials in the vicinity of the areas in San Pedro Cutud, Sta. Lucia and San Juan.
The official campaign period for national candidates began on February 11, while local candidates started their campaigns on March 28.
Both periods will end on May 10, two days before election day on May 12.