PNP reminds poll bets of campaign rules
THE Philippine National Police leadership yesterday reminded all candidates in the May 9 national and local elections as well as their supporters to fully abide by the campaign rules under the new normal set by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
“It will be an unprecedented campaign season so we hope that the candidates will set an example to the public of how they should obey our campaign guidelines,” PNP Chief General Dionardo B. Carlos said.
Comelec Resolution 10732 institutionalizes the new normal in conducting physical campaigns, rallies, meetings, and other related activities and has been supported by the Department of Interior and Local Government.
It particularly required candidates and their supporters to comply with minimum public health standards as prescribed by the Department of Health during the campaign period.
The prohibited acts under the in-person activities include entering private dwelling for house-to-house campaigning even with the owner’s permission, crowding, handshaking or other forms of physical contact, taking selfies or photographs, that require proximity among people, and distributing food and drinks. The same goes for bigger campaign events.
“Our police personnel shall exercise vigilance in monitoring election-related activities while maintaining our being apolitical,” Gen. Carlos said.
The PNP chief asked the public to help them enforce the new rules brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and to immediately report violations of the campaign provisions to the local police.
The campaign period for national candidates will begin on February 8.
