THE ELECTION period started Sunday, Jan. 13, for the May 13 national and local polls with Peace Covenant signing ceremonies around the country participated in by the police, military, government officials, religious leaders, and other stakeholders. Throughout the election season, which will be in effect until June 12, checkpoints will be in place while prohibitions include the carrying and transport of weapons unless exempted by the Commission on Elections (Comelec), and the hiring of private bodyguards by candidates.
CAMPAIGN
The campaign period for candidates, meanwhile, has been set by the Comelec for the following dates:
Feb. 12-May 11 — Senators and party-list groups
March 30-May 11 — Members of the House of Representatives, and regional, provincial, city, and municipal officials.
Campaigning is banned on March 28 and 29 in observance of the Catholic Maundy Thursday and Good Friday.
