The Commission on Elections (Comelec) announced that government aid distribution will pause from May 2 until May 12 to prevent misuse of state resources for illegal campaigning.
To be affected by the 10-day suspension are the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis situations (AICS), Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP), Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), and Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) programs.
In a statement on Monday, Comelec chairman George Garcia said the AICS program, which provides cash assistance for essential needs like medical expenses and education, will face additional scrutiny.
He warned that any distribution within the 10 days would be deemed illegal and carry consequences.
Garcia explained that the expanded ban on government dole-outs during the crucial part of the election season highlights the poll body’s determination to close loopholes and prevent the misuse of public resources.
While the Comelec has imposed strict guidelines, he emphasized the DSWD’s responsibility in maintaining the integrity of its aid programs.
“We will not stop the distribution of the financial aid but the DSWD must adhere to the conditions that we have set,” he said.
He said violations could lead to severe repercussions, including the revocation of exemptions for the DSWD’s programs.
The Comelec’s chief warned that any candidate or government worker exploiting the aid distribution process for political gain could face criminal charges and disqualification.
Meanwhile, Garcia also urged recording artists to file formal complaints against candidates using their songs as campaign jingles without consent.
“We hope that the band [or singers] can file a formal complaint with us. This will serve as the basis for our actions,” the poll chief said.
Garcia made the remarks after the band Lola Amour’s claim that their song was used without permission.
“This happened before, and I guess it’s happening again: All of the campaign jingles using our songs do not have our consent. Vote wisely,” the band said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
“The band needs to submit a formal complaint to us. That will guide our next steps,” Garcia said in a message to reporters on Viber
However, he declined to name the candidate or political party that used the song as their campaign jingle.
The use of songs in campaigns is regulated by a memorandum of agreement signed in January between the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), the poll chief said.