• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson yesterday advised candidates in the synchronized barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections to take the warning of Commission on Elections against violations of election code seriously.
This was after the Comelec issued 73 show cause orders (SCOs) against BSKE candidates in Negros Occidental, allegedly for premature campaigning, as of October 5.
Lacson reminded candidates to “avoid violating campaign rules.”
He said the issuance of SCOs gives the candidate an opportunity to defend themselves.
Campaign period starts from Oct. 19 to 28, with the BSKE elections slated on Oct. 30.
Candidates have 24 hours from receipt of the show cause orders to file their answers on why premature campaigning raps should not be filed against them.
Of the 73 SCOs served, 40 were in EB Magalona, 10 in Bacolod City, 8 in Himamaylan City, 6 in Bago City, 4 in Victorias City, 2 in Sipalay City, 2 in Kabankalan City and 1 in La Carlota City.
Additionally, two candidates from Cadiz City are currently under investigation for violating the Comelec’s ‘Kontra Bigay’ campaign policy.
Comelec warns that engaging in premature campaigning can lead to serious consequences, including disqualification from the race and possible legal penalties as prescribed in the Philippine Omnibus Election Code.*
