Comelec declares election campaigns safe spaces, bans discrimination

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) approved a supplemental resolution Tuesday declaring all election campaign areas, including online platforms, as 'safe spaces' ahead of the May 2025 midterm elections.

Comelec chairman George Garcia announced that Resolution No. 11127 amends Resolution No. 1116 to prohibit acts such as foul language, gender-based harassment, and bullying in all election-related activities.

Garcia emphasized the need for these measures to ensure protection from discrimination based on religious beliefs, personal convictions, gender, ethnicity, age, religion, disabilities, and other forms of abuse in both physical and online spaces.

The resolution also covers child abuse, discrimination, immoral doctrines, obscene publications, exhibitions, indecent shows, racial discrimination, and other forms of incitement to ensure a fair campaigning environment for all candidates.

Comelec reminded all candidates, personnel, electoral boards, and board of canvassers to abide by the new regulations and stressed the importance of responsible public pronouncements and respect towards everyone involved in the election process.