Comelec to bets: "No campaign" rule on Thursday, Good Friday

The Comelec has reminded again the candidates to stop campaigning today (Maundy Thursday) and tomorrow (Good Friday) otherwise they would be violating the elections law.

Election officer Marchel Sarno, of Cebu City North District, said that campaigning during these days is a violation of the Republic Act 9006 or the Fair Elections Act, and therefore a ground for disqualification.

"Under the law, campaign period is from March 30 to May 12, except on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday," Sarno said, adding that the given campaign period are 90 days for senators, and 35 days for local positions.

Sarno reminded also that the wearing of campaign T-shirts or other paraphernalia during these two days could be considered act of campaigning or partisan political activity.

Comelec Resolution No. 7838, dated March 15, provides that the wearing and distribution of campaign propaganda gadgets such as shirts, caps and fans would be prohibited on Holy Thursday and Good Friday.

Comelec central office in Manila added that the ban applies not only to Christians but to people from other religions, even if they do not observe the Lenten season, and to Muslim candidates and in areas where Islam is the only or dominant religion.

The poll body however clarified that candidates could still go to churches, holy shrines and vacation spots during these prohibited days but they must not solicit political support from other people while being there.

Sarno said handshaking may be allowed though considering that such act has been accepted as a normal form of greeting, but then candidates should refrain from discussing in any way politics, their campaign or their candidacy. - Wenna A. Berondo/RAE