Senator Manny Pacquiao. Contributed photo
MANILA, Philippines — Presidential candidate Manny Pacquiao on Tuesday expressed frustration over the limits set for poll campaign, believing that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) should change the rules.
Pacquiao launched his presidential bid in his hometown General Santos City, where he held a caravan and distributed blue t-shirts to residents.
He said his campaign this time is different from his previous ones because there are many restrictions in light of the pandemic. He has also stopped giving money to his supporters, which he did before the official start of the campaign period.
“Gusto ko man, gusto ko sana silang bigyan ng tulong, bigyan ng damit din, eh pipiitin, pinipilit ko ang sarili ko para sumunod sa kautusan ng protocol ng gobyerno,” he said in a press briefing during his proclamation rally.
(Even though I want to give them help, give them clothes, I am trying my best to follow the protocols set by the government.)
“Siguro baguhin nila (Comelec) ‘yung mga patakaran nila dahil masyado naman OA na pati pamimigay ng t-shirt bawal. Hindi ko maintindihan bakit bawal,” he added when asked if the poll body should reconsider some of its protocols against shaking hands with supporters and taking selfies.
(Maybe they should change their protocols because it’s OA that even giving out t-shirts is prohibited. I don’t know why it’s prohibited.)
During the 90-day campaign period, candidates are prohibited from all forms of physical contact such as hugging, shaking hands with people as well as posing for selfies or group pictures.
READ: Comelec sets rules on in-person campaigns; LGUs have say
They were also warned against gathering crowds, entering homes during door-to-door stops, and distributing food, drinks “and all other goods and items.”
READ: For in-person campaign sorties, wear face shield over mask – Comelec
Candidates are also barred from giving out money and gifts to their supporters during the campaign season.
In his campaign launch, Pacquiao assured that if he wins this year’s presidential race. Filipinos can expect an “honest and progressive” government that would give jobs and jail erring government officials.
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