Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — The campaign period for local elections has officially begun.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) initially pegged the start of the campaign period for March 25, however, campaigning was banned as the nation observed Good Friday.
There was also a suspension of campaigning on Maundy Thursday (March 24)
Related: Campaigning banned for two days – Comelec
According to Comelec Chairman Andres Bautista, under Republic Act No. 7166 — as implemented by Comelec Resolution No. 9981 — non-compliance to the suspension in campaigning would be in violation of the law and could result in a person’s imprisonment, removal of the right to vote, and disqualification to hold public office.
The Comelec said the official campaign period for local candidates is from March 25 to May 7.
Campaigns kick off in Zamboanga City
In Zamboanga, retired City Police Director Gen. Mariano Yanga kicked off his mayoralty campaign by attending a meeting with several barangay officials to discuss his platform of security and law and order.
Yanga is running opposite Mayor Beng Climaco.
Local members of the Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipino, led by First District Rep. Celso Lobregat and Second District Rep. Lilia Nuno, also started their campaign with meetings in Barangays Rio Hondo, Mariki, and Sta. Barbara — areas affected by the 2013 Zamboanga City siege.
Lobregat said his team chose these areas because they want to sympathize and commiserate with victims who have yet to transfer to their permanent homes nearly three years after the devastation.
Climaco said her team is scheduled to make their first salvo on Monday (March 27).
LP bets start campaign in Lanao del Sur
The Liberal Party (LP) began their campaign in Lanao del Sur by launching a proclamation rally in Ganassi on Saturday (March 26).
Regional Governor Mujiv Hataman, who is seeking reelection along with his regional vice governor Al-Rashid Lucman, proclaimed their unity with local LP candidates in the province.
Gov. Bombit Adiong, who is running for vice governor, attended the rally, along with incumbent mayors, councilors, board members, and assemblymen who are from the LP.
Local bets begin campaigning in Cotabato City
Local candidates in Cotabato City began hanging posters and tarpaulins in the city on Saturday to signify the start of their campaigns, however, no major political parties held any events.
Moro National Liberation Front Chairman Mus Sema, who is running for mayor under the LP, agreed to start their campaign after the Holy Week.
The LP proclamation rally is scheduled for Monday (March 28).
Incumbent Mayor Japal Guiani Jr, who is running for his third term under the Partidong Galing at Puso Party, said their proclamation rally is scheduled for the first week of April.
Journalists Erwin Cabilbigan, Liza Jocson, and Sittie Ayeesha Dicali contributed to this report.
