Ex-NPA members ask Comelec to amend fair campaign guidelines
Comelec headquarters in Intramuros, Manila. INQUIRER FILES
MANILA, Philippines — In a letter presented on Friday, alleged former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) asked the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to amend the anti-discriminatory and fair campaigning guidelines for the 2025 elections, emphasizing it can disenfranchise “real victims.”
While the group lauded the “fair and non-discriminatory” campaign for members of vulnerable sectors and cause-oriented groups, it pointed out that prohibition of labeling as part of criminal, terrorist, or subversive groups for the election period restraints discussions “about individuals and organizations with ties to groups that have historically waged war against the government.”
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“The resolution disproportionately protects individuals and groups who claim to be “victims” of labeling, without considering that many of us—former rebels, Lumad victims, and others who suffered under the communist insurgency—are also being unfairly labeled as paid hacks, state agents, and red-taggers when we speak out,” the group’s letter read.
The letter also said the group maintains that red-tagging only exists without evidence and what they are telling “is the truth” based on their lived experiences.
The group added that the terms used in the resolution such as “labeling” “branding” “associating” do not provide clear definitions or limits. It also underscored that the use of “vague” terms can lead to uncertainty of free speech and violates principles of due process.
Comelec Resolution No. 11116 stated that “election-related intimidation and harassment can take various forms, including unfounded accusations, labeling or branding without basis, discrimination on the basis of political views, medical condition, gender, or disability, all of which create an atmosphere of fear and a sense of danger, discouraging participation and compromising the safety of candidates, supporters, and voters.”
“Because the resolution is so broadly worded, it can be wielded as a political weapon. Instead of protecting those who allege being “red-tagged,” it may be used against individuals whose accounts are being disregarded by the same entities and individuals who caused them harm,” the letter noted.
READ: Comelec lauded for stressing laws vs ‘labeling, discrimination’
The group also asserted that the resolution will “disenfranchise the real victims” and will not protect the “powerless.”
Further, they also appealed to the Comelec to prioritize strengthening fact-checking initiatives; implement “a fair and transparent” grievance mechanism to process complaints objectively; properly enforce existing rules; and ensure protection of vulnerable groups and safeguards for others including former rebels and insurgency victims.
Meanwhile, Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia said that he will comment on the matter once he receives an official copy of the letter.
