Brace for checkpoints as election period begins Sunday: Comelec

He added that the checkpoint must be manned by personnel in proper uniform. (PNA file photo by Jess M. Escaros Jr.)

MANILA — Checkpoints will be established in strategic places across the country as the election period for the May 13 midterm polls begins on Sunday.

Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said poll officials will conduct inspections of checkpoints, together with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), on Saturday evening.

The election period is from January 13 to June 12.

Jimenez, meanwhile, advised motorists on how to spot a legitimate checkpoint.

“Election period means motorist will start seeing that checkpoints are already on the streets. But remember (that) the checkpoints have to be situated in well-lit areas. They have to be clearly marked with a big checkpoint sign, which says Comelec checkpoint. The sign must contain the name and contact information of the election officer who is in charge of the area. It must also contain the name and contact information of the police officer who is in charge of the checkpoint,” the poll body official said.

He added that the checkpoint must be manned by personnel in proper uniform.

“Check their feet. Sometimes people who are pretending to be legitimate police officers they forget and wear rubber shoes or slippers.

So check their feet. Pero tip lang iyan (That is only a tip),” the poll body official added.

The poll body earlier released guidelines on the prohibited acts during the six-month election period:

-Transfer or movement of officers and employees in the civil service;

-Bearing, carrying or transporting firearms or other deadly weapons, unless authorized in writing by the Commission;

-Use of security personnel or bodyguards by candidates, unless authorized in writing by the Commission.

The campaign period for senators and party-list groups will start on February 12.

For those who will run for local positions, the campaign period will begin on March 29.