Provincial poll officer reminds election aspirants to follow health protocols

BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar — Province Election Supervisor Juan Bautista Jr. has reminded poll aspirants to follow the protocols in filing their certificates of candidacy (COC).

“We are strongly against (candidates) bringing two supporters even if the guidelines allow it. It’s better and safer if only one (person) goes with the candidate,” he said.

Bautista said that if two are brought to the venue, “the other wouldn’t have anything to do.”

He also clarified that only candidates and election officers are allowed inside the venue. The media and other individuals would be designated outside.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) said the province has 329,631 registered voters as of September 30.

Bautista said the Comelec is yet to release the guidelines on the conduct of campaigns.

If in-person campaigns would be allowed in the province, he said it would strictly follow the health protocols against COVID-19.

In Eastern Samar, a total of 244 elective positions are open for the 2022 elections.

JPV