Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Monday stated that it is not illegal for candidates and their supporters to criticize other candidates during campaign activities. "The Omnibus Election Code itself allows negative campaigning," said Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia in an interview.

According to Philippines News Agency, Section 79 of the Omnibus Election Code specifies that an "election campaign" or "partisan political activity" includes actions aimed at promoting or defeating a particular candidate. This encompasses making speeches, announcements, or commentaries, as well as holding interviews for or against the election of any candidate for public office. However, the Comelec Chairperson noted that such actions do not preclude other potential legal cases such as libel or cyberlibel.

In a related development, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group filed complaints with the Department of Justice against former President Rodrigo Duterte. The complaints, which include inciting to sedition and unlawful utterances, were in response to Duterte's remarks about killing senators to benefit candidates he endorses, made during PDP-Laban's proclamation rally in San Juan City on February 13.

In another statement, Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna urged city government employees to remain apolitical, particularly during the election period. She reminded regular employees, especially those in permanent positions, that while they may have personal candidate preferences, they are prohibited from campaigning. Lacuna cautioned employees against using social media platforms for campaigning, as it could jeopardize their positions within the city government.