Baguio: The election officer of this city has advised candidates to use the Holy Week break to reflect and physically prepare for upcoming activities related to the May 12 elections.

According to Philippines News Agency, Baguio's Commission on Elections (Comelec) election officer, John Paul Martin, issued this advice while being interviewed during the Leaders Forum at Baguio Country Club. He reminded candidates that campaigning is strictly prohibited on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, encouraging them to use the time for reflection and rest. "Campaigning is prohibited during the Holy Week so let us use the time to reflect and rest so that we will come back rejuvenated," Martin stated.

Martin emphasized that the Holy Week campaign prohibition extends to the wearing of campaign shirts. He also expressed confidence that most voters in Baguio City have been briefed on how to use the automated counting machines (ACM) for the midterm elections. Martin highlighted that 58 ACM testing activities had been conducted in December and January, covering schools, offices, political parties, and groups to ensure a smooth voting process.

If all ACMs function properly on May 12, Martin noted that local winners could be proclaimed by 10 p.m. on the same day.