Candidates told to ensure safety of supporters, staff during physical campaigning

MANILA, Philippines — After reports that some campaign activities violated health guidelines, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Tuesday reminded candidates of the 2022 national and local elections to assure the safety of their supporters and staff in physical campaigning.

“It has been brought to our attention that several campaign sorties conducted since the campaign period started have not been compliant with the mandatory face mask and face shield policy, as well as the strict physical distancing requirements,” said Comelec Spokesperson James Jimenez in a statement.

“In case the candidates need reminding, they are responsible for the safety of their staff and supporters and that the guidelines on physical campaigning are strictly followed-that is their lookout,” he added.

Jimenez, however, did not specify which campaign activities — and under which candidates these were — recorded violations.

According to Jimenez, election campaign activities that involve physical interactions — such as in-person campaigns, rallies, caucuses, meetings and conventions, motorcades and caravans, and miting de avance — are covered by Resolution No. 10732. Under the said resolution, persons participating in any of the said activities are required to wear full-coverage face shields, together with face masks. Additionally, the minimum public health standards must be observed at all times.

Jimenez then assured that the Comelec continues to strictly monitor violations of the physical campaign guidelines in every locality.

He added that violations of the guidelines are classified either as an election offense or as a violation of the minimum public health standards (MPHS).

An election offense is punishable with imprisonment of not less than one year but not more than six years without probation, while a violation of MPHS will be penalized with a fine of not less than P20,000.00 but not more than P50,000.00 or imprisonment of not less than one month but not more than six months or both such fine and imprisonment.

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