By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Negros Occidental slapped a show cause order against a Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) candidate in Sipalay City for allegedly engaging in premature campaigning.

The BSKE candidate is allegedly engaged in vote-buying activities.

Comelec-NegOcc elections supervisor Atty. Ian Lee Ananoria said they received several reports on alleged premature campaigning, such as solicitation of support from barangay leaders, distribution of groceries, and giving out money.

He revealed that they also received two complaints in Cadiz City about alleged early campaigning and it is now under investigation.

As of press time, Ananoria said that they have not received complaints against campaign activities on social media and the use of campaign posters.

Earlier, Ananoria warned BSKE candidates that they are not allowed to campaign for now.

The official campaign period will be from October 19 to 28.

The Comelec elections supervisor emphasized that prematurely displaying streamers or banners with a candidate’s name and face can be considered premature campaigning, which is an election offense.

Complaints can be logged with the Comelec against such actions.

The Comelec is also monitoring candidates’ social media posts, but Ananoria said this is challenging due to the sheer number of candidates./DGB, WDJ