No prohibition, but politicians urged not to campaign during grand parade

CEBU, Philippines - The police admitted yesterday that there is no legal basis to prohibit politicians from campaigning during the Sinulog grand parade on January 17, but appealed that politicians not do so to avoid disrupting the festivities.

With the 2010 elections barely four months away, politicians vying for national posts are expected to flock the grand parade, which will be attended by an expected 2 million people.

“We encourage everybody, including the politicians, nga magtinabangay sa pagsaulog sa Sinulog nga magmalinawon ug wala’y kakulian nga mahitabo,” Police Regional Office Director Lani-o Nerez said during the “Talakayan sa Isyung Pulis” at the Club Ultima yesterday.

Nerez said the most that the police can do to maintain order is to approach and request politicians and their representatives to refrain from distributing campaign materials.

“Badlungon g’yud ang mga politiko. Hinuon, chance ni nila na mailhan sa publiko, but we like to request them to cooperate with us. Muhangyo ‘ta nila not to turn our Sinulog festival into a political activity,” Nerez said.

Nerez also urged the public not to be easily swayed by political campaigning and advertisements.

“During the election, since mao ni mu-dictate sa atong future, vote wisely and peacefully,” Nerez said.

Lawyer Veronico Petalcorin, Assistant Regional Director of the Commission on Elections 7, emphasized that the campaign period for those running for national posts begins officially February 9 while the campaign period for candidates running for local positions will start officially on March 26.

Nerez also reiterated his appeal to the public not to send off fireworks, fly balloons and/or other similar activities that can potentially disrupt the event. Operators/owners of helicopters are also advised to observe the recommended altitude when flying over the areas of festivities. — Niña G. Sumacot/JMO (THE FREEMAN)