Last day of campaign today

MANILA, Philippines - Candidates have until midnight today to campaign, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) announced yesterday as poll officials warned that violators could be held liable even after election day.

“At 12:01 a.m. (Sunday), campaigning is already illegal. Saturday midnight is the end of the campaign,” Comelec Chairman Sixto Brillantes Jr. told a press briefing.

The poll chief also reminded the public that the liquor ban will be in place tomorrow and on Monday.

Candidates and political parties can hold their miting de avance only until today.

“Hold your miting de avance peacefully. Avoid confrontation. The elections are almost here and you won’t get anything if you engage in arguments or fights,” Brillantes said.

The campaign period for senatorial candidates and party-list organizations officially started on Feb. 12 while bets for local positions started campaigning on March 29.

Brillantes warned the candidates that even after the elections, the Comelec could still go after those who violate campaign rules.