Advocacy Promotion and Campaign Materials
Candidates are further prohibited from promoting their advocacies through various platforms, posting campaign materials on public streets, or producing election-related materials from September 3 to October 18, 2023.
Distribution of "Ayuda" Prohibition
Another critical prohibition that Atty. Cubero highlighted is the total ban on the distribution of "ayuda" or any form of assistance during the campaign period, the day before the elections, and on election day. Even regular projects without official exceptions issued by COMELEC fall under this prohibition, and any violation may lead to disqualification.
Money Ban
During the five days preceding the election and on election day, there is a prohibition on the possession, transport, and carrying of cash exceeding P500,000 or its equivalent in any foreign currency. Such an action is presumed to be intended for vote-buying. However, individuals with specific roles or duties, such as cashiers or disbursing officers, are exempt from this money ban.
Suspicious Transactions and Digital Transactions
Acts constituting suspicious transactions of vote-buying and vote-selling include unusual financial activity between accounts during the election period, large cash withdrawals, encashment of checks lacking legal or trade obligations, or transactions where the amount involved does not align with the client's financial profile. Vote-buying or selling extends to the giving of money through digital or online banking transactions and mobile wallet applications.
Liquor Ban
On election day and the day following it, a strict prohibition is imposed on the buying, selling, and consumption of alcohol.
The Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections are scheduled for October 30, with polling hours from 7 am to 3 pm. These stringent prohibitions serve to maintain the fairness, transparency, and legality of the electoral process and ensure that the elections reflect the true will of the people. (RVC/EDT/JPA/Zamboanga Sibugay)
