Article by:
Ferdinand Patinio
MANILA – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Tuesday reminded candidates and political parties for the March 14 special polls in the 2nd District of Antipolo City of the ban on provision of social services starting March 4.
Comelec chairperson George Garcia said the nine-day ban will be in effect until March 13, a day before the scheduled special polls that will elect the new representative of the 2nd District of Antipolo in the House of Representatives.
Social services programs that are covered by the ban are the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) and Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) of the Department of Labor and Employment, are covered by the ban.
"When we say absolute ban, it means absolute. Let's not look for any loopholes or test the resolve of the Comelec. There will be no room for compromise," he said in a telephone interview.
He asked the voters not to accept any social service assistance from the government during the prohibited period.
"We know you need this blessing. But these are not from politicians and will just be used for politicking or propaganda. Let's not let our dire needs be taken advantage of in the name of personal interest," added Garcia.
Under Resolution No. 11185, during the period of March 4 to 13, there will be an absolute ban on the release of public funds.
The Comelec noted that exempted from the ban are burial and medical assistance. (PNA)
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