Poll bets in ‘ayuda’ distribution may lead to lifted spending ban exemption

Commission on Elections Chairperson George Erwin Garcia  (INQUIRER.net file photo / NOY MORCOSO)

MANILA, Philippines – The presence of politicians or candidates in the distribution of “ayuda” or social services can lead to the removal of exemption of the spending ban in an area, Commission on Elections (Comelec) George Erwin Garcia warned on Thursday.

“If social workers allow that and it’s reported to us, I’m sorry, but we can easily remove the exemption granted to a particular area where the ayuda is distributed,” Garcia told reporters in Filipino in an interview a day before the start of the campaign for local candidates in the May midterm elections.

READ: DSWD programs, now with Akap, exempted anew from poll ban

The Comelec granted the request of the Department of Social Welfare and Development to exempt its several programs from the 2025 elections’ spending ban.

The Omnibus Election Code prohibits the distribution of social services or cash assistance 45 days before a regular election.

“Let us not compromise the help that our fellow citizens need. It’s unfair that, because of the fault of politicians or candidates, they will not be given aid,” Garcia added.

According to Comelec guidelines, politicians, candidates, and any political materials are not allowed during the distribution of these services before the May 12 elections.

READ: DSWD bans politicians, political materials during ‘Akap’ distribution

Garcia also said that even the presence of relatives of the politicians or candidates and their staff are not allowed.

“Especially if there are campaign materials, they should be taken down because the presence we are saying is not just for the actual personal presence only. It is still a symbolic presence,” he said.