Comelec to issue show cause orders vs 3 candidates, 1 party-list for illegal campaign

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is preparing to issue show cause orders against at least three local candidates and a party-list group for alleged illegal campaigning during the Holy Week.

Comelec Chair George Garcia confirmed that the poll body monitored these individuals and groups using their official social media pages for campaigning on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, despite prior warnings.

Garcia clarified that campaigning via social media during these religious days constitutes a violation of the campaign ban, even if the law predates widespread social media use.

The Comelec is also investigating a separate alleged vote-buying incident involving a congressional bet in Quezon City who is believed to have distributed cash cards.

Garcia stated that the distribution of cash cards is considered tantamount to vote-buying, though the candidate has not yet been named pending further investigation.