Comelec to modify resolution on aid distribution ban

/ 04:48 PM January 22, 2025

Comelec to modify resolution on aid distribution ban

Comelec headquarters in Intramuros, Manila. INQUIRER FILES

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will review its resolution on the aid distribution ban in relation to the upcoming 2025 polls.

Commissioner Ernesto Maceda Jr., chairperson of Comelec’s Committee on Kontra Bigay, said the poll body would modify its resolution to include in its purview the “state resources provision” like the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (Akap), Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers” (Tupad), and Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (Aics).

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“There is no need to release a new resolution on that but we are going to modify the same because we are including in the purview or coverage of the committee the abuse of state resources provision,” Maceda said in an interview at Museo de Intramuros where the Comelec en banc was held.

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“This will cover what is popularly known as ayuda ban,” he added. “We will talk about the Akap, what are the rules for Aics and Tupad moving forward.”

The Comelec has exempted Tupad, Akap, and Aics from the ban on the release, disbursement, and spending of public funds 45 days before the elections.

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“We are going to compile and collate our policies on that, as to when they are exempt, if what is covered and included in the exemption…we will study as to where we should impose more restrictions,” Maceda said.

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Section 261 (v) of the Omnibus Election Code prohibits public funds’ release, disbursement, or expenditure 45 days before a regular election.

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Exemptions are allowed, but these must be applied for by the government agency concerned and approved by the Comelec.

Maceda said the Comelec has disqualified two governors due to their involvement in “ayuda violation.”

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READ: Comelec stops 253 barangay execs from taking office over vote-buying

“To equalize the playing field, we ensure that at least, as it approaches the election day itself, that those who give ayuda will not have an undue advantage,” he said.

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TAGS: Comelec, Philippine Elections

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