Comelec mulls anti-discriminatory campaign rules

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections is looking to implement “anti-discrimination” campaign rules for the May 2025 midterm polls. 

Comelec Chairman George Garcia said the poll body will soon issue new rules prohibiting discrimination in campaigning.

Garcia said the purpose of the soon-to-be-issued policy is to give all candidates, regardless of sexual orientation or social status, equal opportunity as provided under the law.

“It’s more about non-discrimination campaigning. If the candidate is a woman, catcalls are normalized. With candidates from other genders, people say whatever they like to say,” Garcia said in Filipino.

“You should not insult someone because of their sexual orientation or status in life,” the poll chief stressed.

Yesterday, the Comelec forged an agreement with Pantay, a youth organization advocating for gender equality.

“The Comelec does not care about sexual orientation. As a Filipino, you should vote, there should be no discrimination,” Garcia stressed.

He said all eligible Filipino youth should be able to cast their votes in next year’s elections.