Here's what both voters and candidates have to remember for the upcoming barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections, according to the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
Speaking on ANC's Beyond Politics, Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez reminded politicians and candidates alike to keep the elections non-partisan.
"Politicians, those with political parties and without, should stay away from the barangay elections. I mean, the temptation is great to say, o, this is why I want to be barangay captain, ganyan, ganyan, but please stay away from the barangay elections," he said.
"The barangay elections are for the communities, there's supposed to be non-partisan. Let's keep it strictly that way," Jimenez added.
Jimenez also reminded candidates to refrain from using the name of politicians to get votes.
"That same reminder goes to the candidates themselves. The candidates do tend to say, may padrino ako, or I'm supported by this politician. Stop that, it's ridiculous," he said.
The barangay and SK elections should also be kept inexpensive, with candidates allowed to spend only around P100,000 or P5 per voter for the campaign.
"It's supposed to be inexpensive. You're campaigning within a small geographic territory, so it can't be that expensive," Jimenez said.
Comelec likewise reminded candidates on the existence of common poster areas.
"Remember that there is a common poster area, and second, if you post it on private property, you have to get the consent of the property owner," Jimenez said.
As for the voters, Jimenez reminded them to come to the polling area early, and to give priority to the elderly, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities.
Voters are also reminded to refrain from any partisan political activity, such as wearing a specific candidate's colors, or giving free rides in exchange for votes (hakot).
"If you are supporting a candidate, do not give free rides to anyone, kasi napapagkamalang hakot 'yan... By law it (hakot) is illegal, and it will cause problems," Jimenez said.
ANC, Beyond Politics, Comelec, James Jimenez, barangay, Sangguniang Kabataan, elections