The Commission on Elections (Comelec) warns politicians against engaging in early campaigning, stating that it can alienate voters. Comelec chairman George Garcia acknowledges the inability to sanction candidates for pre-campaign activities due to the ongoing legal interpretation surrounding the commencement of the official campaign period. He expresses concern over politicians already utilizing billboards, television commercials, and newspaper advertisements, emphasizing the Comelec's responsibility to comply with the Supreme Court's ruling that a candidate is officially recognized only at the start of the campaign period.
Vito BarceloThe Commission on Elections warned politicians that early campaigning can have a backlash on their chances to win in the midterm polls, saying this can turn off voters.
Comelec chairman George Garcia admitted the poll body cannot yet sanction candidates for such activities since the campaign period for the May elections has not started.He expressed dismay at politicians who are already posting advertisements through billboards, television commercials, and even in newspapers ahead of the campaign period.
He said Comelec is duty-bound to respect the Supreme Court’s ruling that a person who files a certificate of candidacy is only considered a candidate at the start of the official campaign period. “It is difficult for us to act on these matters , but we know that we will be blamed for the illegal political posters that swarmed the streets, walls and other public places. They are on television, social media and all – directly campaigning” Garcia said.
Garcia said individuals who post political ads would only be considered a candidate during the first day of the campaign period on Feb. 12 if they are running for a national position, and on Mar. 28 if they are running for a local position.“Take it easy. Don’t underestimate our voters. They are intelligent and would not be abused,” he said.
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