Comelec reminds nat’l bets: No campaigning on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday

MANILA—The Commission on Elections on Wednesday reminded candidates running for national positions in the May 9 polls that campaigning is not allowed on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday.

Comelec Chairman Juan Andres Bautista explained that under Republic Act No. 7166, as implemented by Comelec Resolution No. 9981, campaigning on the said days of the Holy Week is strictly prohibited.

“To all our candidates, it is not allowed to campaign during Maundy Thursday and Good Friday,” he said.

Campaigning will resume on Black Saturday which also marks the start of the campaign period for local bets.

Section 5 of RA 7166 states that the Comelec may exclude Maundy Thursday and Good Friday in the campaign period when issuing the Calendar of Activities.

Meanwhile, the poll body said the ban on construction of public works is set to take effect on Friday.

Also on Friday, the ban on release of public funds, appointment or hiring of new employees, creation or filling up of new positions, and promotion or giving of salary increases will start.

The said measure is based on Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code, which lists down the prohibited acts during the election period.

Violation of the said prohibitions will constitute an election offense, which carries a penalty of one to six years imprisonment, removal of right to vote, and disqualification to hold public office.