QC poll exec: We can't go after premature campaigners

MANILA, Philippines – The head of Commission on Elections in Quezon City today poll personnel's hands are tied on the campaign materials posted by Sangguniang Kabataan and barangay election bets prior start of campaign period.

In an interview, lawyer Ronald Allan Sindo, Quezon City election officer  IV, said they could not go after these local candidates unless someone would file a complaint against them for prematurely campaigning.

"They also cannot be liable for an election offense unless they formally file their certificate of candidacy," Sindo said.

Sindo made the statement in line with the proliferation of campaign posters and materials in the city of prospective candidates in the SK and barangay polls on Oct. 25.

The official campaign period for the local polls start on Oct. 14 and ends on Oct. 24.

Meanwhile, Sindo said they will designate common poster areas during the campaign period.

These areas are usually covered courts, public plazas or markets where candidates can put their respective posters and banners, he added.

"If they want to put campaign materials in a private property, they would apply with us and we will conduct an ocular inspection if it is suitable common poster area," Sindo said.

He, however, pointed candidates would be liable for a election violation if they offer or give money to people just to post or put campaign materials on their houses or businesses establishments.

"It is a form of vote-buying. The only consideration is that the person is truly a supporter," Sindo said.