THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) has set July 3 to 7 as the period for the filing of the Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) for individuals looking to run in the October 30, 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) .
Under Comelec Resolution No. 10899, the campaign period for the barangay and youth will run from October 19 to 28.
The poll body said any campaign activities will be prohibited from July 8 to October 18.
The Comelec has earlier said it intends to apply the prohibition on premature campaigning in the forthcoming October 2023 BSKE.
Under the Omnibus Election Code (OEC), it is unlawful to engage in an election campaign or partisan political activity except during the campaign period.
Also in accordance with the Calendar of Activities set for the BSKE, the poll body said the Election Period is set from July 3 to November 14.
During the Election Period, the public is prohibited from bearing or carrying firearms, using security personnel, engaging in vote buying and vote selling, transfer of civil service employees, and suspension of local elective officials.
For the Campaign Period, the following is not allowed: removing or defacing of lawful propaganda materials, use or posting of illegal campaign materials, use of armored land or water or aircraft, use of policemen as bodyguards, release of public funds, and construction of barangay funded roads and bridges.
On the Eve of Election Day or October 29, campaigning will already be prohibited.
Similarly, the selling, buying, serving, and taking intoxicating liquor are also banned on October 29.
On Election Day or October 30, the Comelec said casting of votes will be from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. The counting and canvassing of votes, as well as the proclamation of winning candidates, shall take place immediately after the close of voting.
The Comelec said the last day for the filing of Statements of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCEs) will be on November 29.
