Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada on Monday warned barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan candidates not to engage in political propaganda and vote buying and should instead strictly observe the Commission on Elections campaign rules and guidelines.
The former President also reminded voters not to elect candidates who are corrupt and are involved in illegal drug trade.
The synchronized barangay and SK elections are scheduled on May 14, and this would be “the opportune time for voters to choose their local leaders who would make their barangay more safe and clean to live,” Estrada said.
The mayor said this will also give them the chance to replace local barangay officials who continue to abuse their position fro almost several years by protecting criminals and drugs pushers and users.
Estrada likewise urged local candidates not to overspend in the campaign since the Comelec set a limit of five pesos per registered voters as stipulated in the Fair Election Act.
The spending limit is based on the number of registered voters and not on the population, according to Comelec.
He also warned aspiring barangay and SK candidates from early campaigning that may result for their disqualifications.
The official campaign period for qualified candidates has been set from May 4 to 12.
The Comelec said candidates can only use lawful election materials such as pamphlets, leaflets, stickers and posters that measures no more than 2 feet by 3 feet.
The poll body has set up common poster areas and violations of the Comelec’s order would mean outright disqualification.
“Posting of campaign materials in government vehicles, patrol cars, public building walls, trees, electric posts are prohibited,” the Comelec said.