Diocese of Bacolod may benefit from case on airtime limits, says lawyer

MANILA, Philippines - The diocese of Bacolod may benefit from Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano’s case questioning airtime limits that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has imposed.

Election lawyer Romulo Macalintal said yesterday Cayetano’s arguments will also clarify rules on the size of posters.

“Cayetano’s position that the time limit set by the Comelec is unconstitutional as it limits people’s right to information apply four-square to the complaint filed by the Bacolod Diocese against the Comelec, since prohibiting the display of such tarpaulins likewise restricts the church parishioners’ right to information on matters relating to church activities, policies and positions,” he said.

Macalintal said any prohibition against the Catholic Church violates the constitutional provision on freedom of expression and religion.

Based on a previous Supreme Court ruling, when a voter posts a streamer with a candidate’s name he is espousing ideas, he added.

Arguing that political airtime must be allowed on a per station basis, Cayetano said radio and TV are the most effective ways to inform voters about candidates.