STA. BARBARA, Pangasinan (PIA) – In observance of Maundy Thursday (April 17) and Good Friday (April 18), the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) reminded all candidates and their supporters to respect these holy days, emphasizing that campaigning is strictly prohibited.
Lawyer Michael Franks Sarmiento, election officer of COMELEC Dagupan City, said during PIA Pangasinan’s Pantongtongan Tayo on April 16 that the campaign period does not mean candidates should campaign continuously.
“Let us take time to reflect during these holy days. We will have a campaign break, and all forms of campaigning are prohibited,” he stated.
This includes rallies, house-to-house visits, offering food and drinks during religious activities, and even social media campaigns.
“If the campaign post was made before the campaign restrictions but shared by someone during the restricted period, the candidate is not the one violating the rules. It is the supporter or private citizen who shared the post who will be held accountable,” Sarmiento clarified.
Sharing content, like a vlog of a candidate eating or exercising, does not automatically constitute a violation.
Sarmiento explained that content should be evaluated first, and if it does not contain any statements or actions that can be considered campaigning, it is allowed.
COMELEC rules only apply to materials clearly related to campaigning.
Meanwhile, Sarmiento warned that committing an election offense may lead to one to six years of imprisonment, along with perpetual disqualification from holding public office. Violators will be penalized under Sections 263 and 264 of the Omnibus Election Code.
He encouraged the public to report any campaign activities observed from April 17 to 18. For concerns, the public may contact COMELEC Dagupan City at AB Fernandez Street, Dagupan City Hall 2F.
“If we witness violations, it does not mean we should report immediately. First, document it. It is better if it is captured on video. Then, report it when working days resume to file a formal complaint,” he said.
The campaign period will continue on Saturday, April 19.
Beyond legal compliance, Sarmiento said this is also a matter of respecting religious observances that hold deep meaning for the Filipino people. (CCMT/JCDR, PIA Pangasinan)
