LEXIS: The UNC LSB Legal Information Drive

Wave 17

What is Electioneering?
Electioneering, also known as “election campaign” or “partisan political activity”, refers to an
act designed to promote the election or defeat of a particular candidate or candidates to a public
office.
(Section 79(b) of the Omnibus Election Code)

Who are covered by the prohibition?

a) Members of the Civil Service including those on leave of absence, whether their
appointments are permanent, temporary, contractual, or even casual
b) Career officers holding political officers in an acting or officer-in-charge capacity
c) Uniformed and active members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine
National Police
d) Barangay officials
e) Members of the board of election inspectors
f) Foreigners, whether juridical or natural persons

What acts are covered?

If any of the following acts are done for the purpose of soliciting votes and/or campaigning to
support or oppose the election of any candidate:
a) Forming organizations, associations, committees or other groups;
b) Holding political conferences, meetings, rallies, parades, or other similar assemblies;
c) Making speeches, announcements or commentaries, or holding interviews;
d) Publishing or distributing campaign literature or materials; or
e) Directly or indirectly soliciting votes, pledges or support for or against a candidate.
* Not covered if performed for the purpose of enhancing the chances of aspirants for nomination
for candidacy to a public office by a political party or coalition of parties.
Other acts of electioneering:
a) Being a delegate to any political convention, or a member or officer of any political
organization;
b) Receiving any contribution for political purposes;
 c) Wearing of t-shirts or pins, caps or any other similar election paraphernalia bearing
names of candidates or political party;
d) Being a watcher for a political party or candidate;
e) Giving personal, financial or other monetary contribution, supplies, equipment, and
materials;
f) Utilizing government resources such as personnel including job orders or contract of
service hires, time and properties for political purposes;
g) Distributing handbills or leaflets; and
h) Distributing letters indicating intention to run for public office.

When does the prohibition take effect?

The prohibition shall apply at the start of the campaign period:
February 8, 2022 – May 7, 2022 (90 days before Election Day)
For President, Vice President, Senators, and Party-List Groups
March 25, 2022 – May 7, 2022 (45 days before Election Day)
For District Representatives and Local Elective Positions