With just three days remaining until the Philippine national elections on May 12, 2025, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is issuing a critical reminder to all candidates and voters regarding the strict enforcement of campaign prohibitions and essential voter guidelines.
Campaign Deadline and Ban:
The official campaign period will conclude on May 10, 2025. Effective May 11, 2025, any forms of campaigning are strictly prohibited. Violators will face severe penalties, including imprisonment ranging from one to six years, disenfranchisement (loss of the right to vote), and perpetual disqualification from holding any government position.
Prohibited Activities During Election Eve and Election Day (May 11-12, 2025):
Campaigning: All campaign activities are strictly forbidden.
Donation of Objects of Value: The giving or receiving of free transportation, food, drinks, or any items of value, as well as the provision of money or contributions for these purposes, is prohibited.
Alcoholic Beverages: The purchase, sale, or consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited, except in hotels and establishments authorized by the Department of Tourism and COMELEC, and only for foreign guests.
Important Reminders for Voters:
Know Your Precinct: Voters are strongly encouraged to utilize the COMELEC Precinct Finder to verify their precinct location and voting details.
Use the Voter Information Sheet (VIS): Voters should print or save their VIS as a valuable guide on Election Day.
Report Violations: Any observed violations of election rules should be immediately reported to the COMELEC for prompt action.
COMELEC emphasizes that these guidelines are crucial for ensuring a clean, fair, and orderly election. Compliance is not only the responsibility of candidates but also the civic duty of every Filipino voter.
The COMELEC has urged all candidates and voters to respect and adhere to these regulations. The goal is to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and ensure a peaceful and credible election.
