Comelec set to ban campaign motorcades on 18 major Metro roads

Comelec Chairman Sixto Brillantes Jr.. FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines–The Commission on Elections is set to ban campaign motorcades on at least 18 major thoroughfares in Metro Manila to avoid traffic build up.

Comelec Chair Sixto Brillantes on Friday said they are now drafting a resolution granting the request of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority to regulate campaign activities, like motorcades, in major roadways in the metropolis.

“We are approving the proposal in principle. Under the resolution, it will be banned totally … Totally banned in major thoroughfares,” said Brillantes in a press briefing.

Among the major roadways where motorcades could be banned include EDSA, South SuperHighway, Boni Avenue, Taft Avenue, Avenida and C5.

He said the resolution, which will contain the complete list of roads, will most likely be released early next week.

Brillantes said issuing a motorcade ban in some areas is part of the function of the Comelec to regulate campaign activities, especially since the roads mentioned are perennial problem areas due to the volume of vehicles plying them.

Section 6 of Comelec Resolution 9615 includes vehicle motorcades as one of the lawful election propaganda but is subject to the supervision and regulation by the election body.

Meanwhile, Brillantes clarified that same rules cannot be applied to political rallies being held along highways and major roads.

He said they do not find political rallies as problematic as campaign motorcades since rallies or political gatherings are just stationary.

“Also, rallies are still subject to the permission of local government agencies,” said Brillantes but added that the resolution will also include guidelines on the conduct of rallies.