Senatorial bet hales ‘early birds’ to SC

MANILA, Philippines—A senatorial candidate on Friday asked the Supreme Court (SC) to stop the airing of television commercials and the political advertisements of five government officials who are to also contest seats in the Senate in next year’s elections.

Lawyer Samson Alcantara of the Social Justice Society named as respondents in the civil action Sen. Allan Peter Cayetano, Aurora Rep. Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, San Juan City Rep. Joseph Victor Ejercito and Cagayan Rep. Juan “Jack” Ponce Enrile Jr., and Puerto Princesa City Mayor Edward Hagedorn.

Alcantara said the government officials “acted contrary to law, good morals and public policy” and that they “grossly violated the letter and spirit” of the Constitution, Republic Act No. 6713 of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees as well as Article 19 of the Civil Code.

“Respondents’ television commercials are obviously intended to enhance their chances in the 2013 senatorial elections and through the same are able to circumvent with impunity the limitations on airtime allotment for candidates during the campaign period,” the lawyer said.