Comelec issues calendar of activities for barangay, youth polls

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has prescribed its new calendar of activities as well as prohibited acts in relation to the May 14, 2018 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.

In Comelec Resolution No. 10246 promulgated on Monday, the poll body scheduled the election period from April 14 to May 21 this year.

Those interested in running for posts in the barangay or Sangguniang Kabataan may file their certificates of candidacy from April 14 to 20.

This will be followed by a nine-day campaign period from May 4 to May 12.

The Comelec warned candidates against committing prohibited acts during the campaign period, or they would be charged with violating the Omnibus Election Code.

Among the prohibited acts are: making any donation or gift in cash or in kind, as well as appointing or using special policemen or confidential agents; construction or maintenance of barangay-funded roads and bridges; appointment or hiring of new employees, creation of new position, promotion, giving of salary increases, remuneration or privileges, etc.

The Comelec said candidates would no longer be allowed to do any campaigning on May 13, the eve of Election Day.

A liquor ban will be enforced from May 13 to 14, or Election Day.

Meanwhile, prohibited acts during the election period include: the alteration of precincts or establishment of new precincts; carrying of firearms or other deadly weapons; use of security personnel or bodyguards by candidates; transfer of officers and employees in the civil service; and the suspension of any elective local officer.

On May 14 or Election Day, voters may cast their ballots in their respective polling precincts from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Candidates have until June 13 to submit their statements of contributions and expenditures to the Comelec.#