• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has reminded candidates for the May 12 midterm elections that campaigning during Maundy Thursday and Good Friday is strictly prohibited, with violators facing penalties under the Omnibus Election Code.
Lionel Marco Castillano, Comelec regional director for Negros Island Region, said on Monday, April 14, he is hoping that candidates and their supporters will respect the rule.
Comelec Resolution No. 10999 explicitly bans all forms of election campaigning or partisan political activities during these two Holy Week holidays.
Castillano said campaigning during this period is an election offense, which carries penalties, including disqualification from holding public office.
He also reminded candidates that campaigning a day before or during the election day is prohibited as well.
The official campaign period for national candidates started on February 11 while local candidates started their campaign on March 28.
Both periods will conclude on May 10. | GB
