• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson yesterday advised candidates in the synchronized barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE) to take seriously the warning of Commission on Election (Comelec) on violations of the Omnibus Election Code.
This came after the Comelec issued 73 show-cause orders (SCOs) to candidates in the province allegedly for premature campaigning.
“Avoid violating campaign rules,” the governor reminded them.
He said the issuance of SCOs gives the candidates the opportunity to defend themselves.
Campaign period for the Oct. 30 elections is set from Oct. 19 to 28.
Candidates have 24 hours from receipt of the SCOs to file their answers before the Comelec Task Force Anti-Epal on why premature campaigning cases should not be filed against them.
Of the 73 SCOs served, the most number were for candidates in E.B. Magalona, 40; Bacolod City, 10; Himamaylan City, eight; Bago City, six; Victorias City, four; Sipalay City and Kabankalan City, two each; and La Carlota City, one.
Two candidates from Cadiz City are also being investigated for violating the “Kontra Bigay” campaign policy.
The Comelec has warned candidates that engaging in premature campaigning can lead to serious consequences, including disqualification from the race and possible legal penalties as prescribed in the Omnibus Election Code. | GB
