Comelec issues guidelines on synchronized elections

The Commission on Elections has issued guidelines and the calendar of activities in connection with the synchronized barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on October 29.

Comelec Resolution No. 8264 stated that the election period will start on September 29 and will end on November 13, which is 30 days before and 15 days after the elections.

Within this period, the Comelec has prohibited, among others, the alteration of territory of a precinct or establishment of a new precinct, illegal release of prisoners, and fundraising through dances, lotteries and cockfighting. 

It also prohibited the transfer or detail of officers and employees in the civil service, including public school teachers, and the suspension of any elective provincial, city, municipal or barangay officer.

On October 11 will be the start of the filing of certificate of candidacy for those who are interested to run for any barangay position. The filing of certificate of candidacy will end on October 18.

The election campaign will only last for nine-days from October 19 to October 27.

The last barangay election was held on July 15, 2002 but the next election, which was supposed to be held in 2005, was suspended by the government. — Garry B. Lao/LPM