Commission on Elections (Comelec) chair George Garcia vowed that the poll regulator will adhere to the law amid calls to postpone infrastructure, public works, and social projects ahead of the May 2025 elections.
Critics earlier voiced concerns that these might be “politicized.”
“Our law has a ban on public works and social services. The law that prohibits public works and social services is a 1985 law. As long as this remains unchanged, this is what the Commission on Elections will enforce,” Garcia said.
“Because if we grant exemptions, the public or other groups will blame us. I hope everyone understands that it’s difficult to stop public works,” Garcia told the press in a briefing.
Garcia said the Comelec will allow projects that are already underway but will stop those that seemed to be created just for politicking.
“Difficult projects are only thought of by a politician because he’s running for office. We won’t allow that,” he said.
Moreover, the Comelec chief said the poll body will not hinder the delivery of critical social services to the poor such as financial aid and scholarships.
“We can’t just stop it as long as it’s clear what kind of permit or exemption is being requested, how it will be implemented, who will benefit, how much will be used, and the politician should not be present during the distribution,” he said.
The election period starts on Jan. 12.
