Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Monday reminded barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials to refrain from using state resources in campaigning for their bets in the midterm elections. Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia emphasized that while the poll body has approved elected village officials’ participation in partisan political and campaigning activities, this does not extend to the use of government resources for such purposes.

According to Philippines News Agency, Garcia stated, “You can support your candidates but don’t use public funds. That can be considered as abuse of state resources, which is a violation of the election laws.” He made these remarks during an interview, underscoring the legal implications of misusing state resources.

Furthermore, Garcia urged village officials to maintain fairness toward candidates seeking the use of public venues in their areas for campaign activities. “If you let the plazas and courts be used by the candidates you support, make sure they can also be used by those you don’t support. Let us issue permits to those requesting. That’s equal opportunity for all,” he added. The campaign period for local bets starts on Friday and will run until May 10, while the 90-day campaign period for national bets began on February 11.

In a separate development, Garcia reassured the public that there will be no “dagdag-bawas” (vote padding, vote shaving) in the upcoming elections. “We guarantee to everyone, and to the general public, having dagdag-bawas will be impossible in an automated election system. For those with doubts, we are telling you, with all due respect, there is no basis to think there will be dagdag-bawas,” he declared. These comments were in response to Vice President Sara Duterte’s statements about her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, expressing concerns over potential election fraud, specifically “dagdag-bawas,” in the midterm elections.