Comelec prohibits giving of donations
From February 13 to May 12, 2007, aspirants for senators and party-list participants are allowed to campaign but giving of donations or gift in cash or in kind is prohibited by the Commission on Election (COMELEC) during the period.
Under a resolution adopted by the COMELEC that prescribed the period of activities and prohibited acts for the 2007 elections, candidates for House seats and other local positions have until March 29 to file their Certificate of Candidacies, with the campaign period starting on March 30 and ending also on May 12.
On the other hand, from March 30 to May 14, 2007, the COMELEC prohibits appointment or hiring of new employees, creation and filling up of new positions, promotion or giving of salary increases, remuneration or privilege. It also prohibits the construction of public works, delivery of materials for public works and issuance of treasury warrants or similar devices for a future undertaking chargeable against public funds, releases, disbursements or expenditures of public funds, public works, social services and development.
On the eve of election day, the law imposes a nationwide liquor ban as well as it prohibits the giving, accepting free transportation, food, drinks and things of value. These said acts are also prohibited from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on May 14, election day.
The following are also prohibited during election day: soliciting votes or undertaking any propaganda for or against any candidate or any political party within the polling place or within thirty meters thereof; voting more than once or in substitution of another; holding of fairs, cockfights, boxing, horse races or similar sports; and opening of booths or stalls for the sale, etc., of merchandise or refreshments within a radius of thirty meters from the polling place.
COMELEC Chairman Benjamin Abalos had called for the conduct of a credible election and asked all political parties and voters to call the poll body's attention immediately in cases of irregularities during the election.
The Filipinos need the help of all major players in the crusade for democracy and the administration assures the Filipino electorate of its determination in preserving the sanctity of the ballot and in ensuring that the result of the election reflects the voice of the people. (PIA)