The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is organizing a forum for Negros Oriental candidates in the May 12 national and local elections as some are unfamiliar with campaign laws and related topics.

Comelec-Negros Island Region Executive Director Lionel Marco Castillano said the forum on February 7 will provide the candidates with insights on the prohibitions during the campaign period leading to the elections.

“We have seen in the past that even lawyers hired by political candidates are not that well-versed on election laws, particularly the Fair Elections Act, which they only review every three years or when there is an election,” Castillano said.

Candidates running for provincial and congressional positions in Negros Oriental are invited to the event at the Maringal Hall of the Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office.

Castillano plans to instruct local election officers to conduct similar forums such as town hall meetings.

The Comelec, Philippine National Police and Diocesan Electoral Board will also collaborate to organize activities such as a peace covenant, unity walk and youth concert.

Msgr. Julius Perpetuo S. Heruela, DEB convenor, emphasized the focus on youth voters’ education through the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting and the National Movement for Free Elections.

The campaign period for national candidates will start on February 11 and for the local candidates on March 28.

Castillano said that they are awaiting Comelec’s directives before launching “Operation Baklas” or the dismantling of unauthorized campaign materials. (PNA)