Comelec, PNP discuss safe elections initiatives

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the Philippine National Police are continuing discussions on how to ensure safe and fair elections ahead of May 12, focusing on initiatives like local absentee voting and awareness campaigns against illegal firearms.

Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia and PNP Chief Marilou Basilio have emphasized the need for proactive measures such as the 'Revitalized Katok' initiative aimed at preventing illegal firearm proliferation and political intimidation.

The 100-day countdown has been initiated to raise public awareness on combating guns, goons, gold, and fake news during the elections.

Local absentee voting (LAV) applications are due by March 7 for qualified individuals including PNP, AFP, Comelec personnel, and media members who will perform election duties on April 28-30.

Comelec is also clarifying rules regarding campaign expenses of social media personalities endorsing relatives up to the second degree of consanguinity or affinity.