THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) has urged politicians vying for positions in the upcoming midterm elections to avoid using the Iglesia ni Cristo’s (INC) “National Rally for Peace” on Monday as a platform for premature campaigning and self-promotion.
“Let us respect the goals of this religious activity. Politicians who value and respect religious faith will be blessed,” Comelec Chair George Garcia said during a radio interview. He also warned politicians against being “epal” (attention seekers) during the event, emphasizing that any actions causing disruption could lead to disqualification cases.
“Do not abuse the kindness of the faithful. Do not be ‘epal,’” Garcia stated. “If chaos ensues because of you, the Comelec will not hesitate to take you out of the race.”
Garcia clarified that while the Comelec would not monitor the rally out of respect for its religious nature, candidates are expected to show restraint and integrity. He also reminded them of the moral obligation to distinguish right from wrong, despite the absence of laws prohibiting premature campaigning.
The official campaign period for the May 12 elections will run from February 11 to May 10 for senatorial and party-list candidates, and from March 28 to May 10 for local candidates.
The rally, expected to draw over a million participants to Quirino Grandstand, is organized by the INC in support of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s opposition to efforts aimed at removing Vice President Sara Duterte, his “UniTeam” running mate, from office.