Editorial

Remain Impartial in Elections

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) and the anti-corruption commission have joined forces to monitor and punish government agencies who engage in partisan political activity in the upcoming elections.

In a recent press conference, COMELEC spokesman James Jimenez and Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission Chair (PACC) Dante Jimenez reiterated the prohibitions for Civil Service members as preparations for the May 13 midterm polls.

The two reiterated that they can express their own preference but they cannot impose that preference on others. 

He explained that government officials are not allowed to coerce their subordinates and colleagues into supporting their preferred candidate. Likewise, agencies are prohibited from using public funds and resources in endorsing candidates. 

James Jimenez emphasized that the government agencies are not allowed to utilize resources such as their personnel to aid political campaigns. For example, they cannot deploy their employees to put up streamers or banners or use official vehicles for parades, he cited.

Those who violate these rules and engage in partisan political activity will be subject to one up to six years of imprisonment and may be disqualified from holding public office.

He also clarified that the rules against partisan political activity among civil servants have been in effect since the start of the election period which was on January 13. However, they issued the warning after the start of the campaign period, after the official candidates have been named. 

James Jimenez added that prior to the start of the campaign period, rules do not apply to potential candidates, but the prohibition still technically applies to civil servant. For all practical purposes, we can see the prohibition really kick in at the start of the campaign period because that is the only time we can technically be partisan for any particular candidate.

James Jimenez said they will take note of the reports of violations, however they still have to go through the validation process before appropriate action is taken against them. Due process still has to be followed and the public should not expect the candidates to be disqualified immediately after they report their violation, he said. 

He said we must not expect the results will be instant but they will move as fast as they can. 

Meanwhile, Dante Jimenez appealed to the public to report and present evidence of partisan political activity to authorities so the appropriate sanctions can be issued against them.

The PACC Chair issued a warning against violating candidates and urged the public to be vigilant. He assured that they will fulfill their mandate and will show no mercy who will not comply with campaign rules.