Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued a reminder to all candidates participating in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections (BPE) and the special polls for the 4th District Representative in Cavite to adhere to campaign rules and regulations. The campaign period for these elections is slated to commence on July 30.
According to Philippines News Agency, Comelec Chairperson George Garcia emphasized the importance of compliance with the stipulated guidelines. Garcia stated, "We would like to remind candidates, countrymen, political parties, and sectoral organizations that the campaign period will start tomorrow. We ask the candidates, observe the campaign rules and regulations.In contrast to what we have set, we will disqualify candidates who will violate them. Gun ban is also in effect," during an interview at the Chairman's Hall, Comelec main office in Intramuros, Manila.
Garcia highlighted the prohibition of using government resources for campaign activities. He warned against the misuse of public funds, stating that any reports of such actions could be submitted through the Comelec website, and assured that the Commission would act accordingly. "Avoid using the public funds, government resources. That is what we call abuse of state resources. Those who want to report (such acts), they may report it to the Comelec website. We will take action. We will not hesitate to disqualify candidates and file appropriate criminal charges against them," he asserted.
The special election in Cavite is scheduled for August 29, while the BPE is set for September 14. Five candidates, including Raul Rex Del Rosario Mangubat, Marvin Opamin Dupal-ag, Leysander Aguilar Ordenes, Jacinto Bautista Frani, Jr., and Dasmari±as City Mayor Jennifer Barzaga, are vying for the position of 4th District Representative of Cavite. This election is being held to fill the vacancy left by Rep. Francisco Barzaga Jr., who was expelled from office due to various violations last June.
The campaign period for Cavite's special polls will conclude on August 27, while the BPE campaign will end on September 12. The BPE features a diverse set of candidates, including 13 Regional Parliamentary Political Parties and 30 nominees from Parliamentary Sectoral Organizations. The latter includes candidates for Settler Communities, Women, Youth, Ulama, and Traditional Leaders. Additionally, 107 candidates are contesting for Parliamentary District Representative positions across various districts in the BARMM region.
