Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 20) — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Friday said it filed 134 show cause orders against candidates who failed to follow rules on day one of the campaign period for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).
Comelec Chairman George Garcia told CNN Philippines’ The Source that the campaign began generally peaceful on Thursday, but some candidates failed to educate supporters on guidelines.
“When it comes to cases involving violation of our campaigning rules, yung mga (for) illegal campaign materials, almost 134 na po as of kahapon (as of yesterday),” he said.
Authorities strictly prohibit the distribution of items like T-shirts, ballers, caps, or food; limit the wearing of T-shirts with the candidate’s picture to five people; and limit poster size to 2 feet (0.60 meter) by 3 feet (0.91 meter) only in designated areas.
Garcia said Comelec is making sure existing rules are followed strictly. He also reminded candidates to watch their back and their supporters since any violation will be their liability.
He said candidates can tap social media for campaigning, adding that Comelec can monitor these activities.
Garcia said the Comelec has also filed almost 7,000 show cause orders in relation to premature campaigning, of which 200 were filed with disqualification cases. The poll body hopes to resolve these, along with the five pending cases of nuisance candidates, before the election on Oct. 30.
On election day, Garcia said automated BSKE will be held in two barangays in Dasmarinas, Cavite, and in Pasong Tamo in Quezon City. Casting of votes in Metro Manila, Legazpi, and Cebu can also be done in 11 malls, he added.
