MANILA, Philippines – The election period begins on Sunday, January 13, along with prohibition on various activities. 

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will enforce these bans during various periods before, during, and after the elections to ensure the orderly conduct of the polls on May 13, 2019. (READ: Calendar of activities for 2019 national, local elections)

The prohibitions include the gun ban during the entire election period, and the liquor ban on election eve and Election Day.

Below is the list of prohibitions the Comelec will enforce in relation to the 2019 elections, as stated in Comelec Resolution Number 10429.

Election period – January 13 to June 12, 2019

• Alteration of territory of a precinct or the establishment of a new precinct
• Transfer or movement of officers and employees in the civil service
• Gun ban, or the bearing of firearms or other deadly weapons, unless authorized by the Comelec
• Use of security personnel/bodyguards by candidates, unless authorized by the Comelec
• Organization of reaction forces, strike forces, etc.
• Suspension of elective local officials

Campaign period – February 12 to May 11, 2019

• Campaigning on Maundy Thursday (April 18) and Good Friday (April 19)

The campaign period for national candidates begins on February 12, while the campaign period for local bets begins on March 29.

Campaign period to Election Day – February 12 to May 13, 2019

• Giving donations/gifts in cash or in kind by candidates, treasurers of parties, or their agents for any structure for public use or for the use of any religious or civic organization
• Appointment or use of special policemen, confidential agents, etc 

Eve of election to Election Day – May 12 and 13, 2019

• Campaigning
• Liquor ban, or the selling, buying, or taking of liquor
• Giving or accepting free transportation, food or drinks, or things of value

Additional prohibitions on Election Day, May 13

• Voting more than once or in substitution of another
• Soliciting votes or undertaking any propaganda for or against any candidate or political party within 30 meters from a polling place
• Opening of booths for the sale of merchandise or refreshments within 30 meters from a polling place
• Holding of fairs, cockfights, boxing, horse races, or any other similar sports

Other prohibited acts 

• May 13, 2018, to August 11, 2019 – Transfer, promotion, extension, recall, or any other movement of an officer or member of the foreign service corps from his or her current post or position
• March 14 to June 12, 2019 – Illegal release of prisoners
• March 29 to May 12, 2019:
• Appointment or hiring of new employees, creation or filling up of new positions, promotion or giving salary increases, remuneration, or privilege
• Construction of public works
• Release, disbursement, or expenditures of public funds
• April 13 to May 13, 2019 – Campaigning abroad

– Rappler.com