The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has affirmed that negative campaigning is within the bounds of the law, as stated by Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia. This statement comes in response to queries about the legality of criticizing other candidates during election campaigns. According to Section 79 of the Omnibus Election Code, election campaigns include activities aimed at promoting or opposing the election of candidates, which encompasses speeches, announcements, commentaries, and interviews.
However, Garcia pointed out that while negative campaigning is allowed, it does not exempt individuals from potential legal repercussions such as charges of libel or cyberlibel. This clarification comes at a time when the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group has filed complaints against former President Rodrigo Duterte for inciting to sedition and unlawful utterances due to his controversial remarks about killing senators to favor his endorsed candidates during a PDP-Laban rally in San Juan City.
In a related development, Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna has urged city government employees to remain apolitical during the election period. Lacuna emphasized the importance of neutrality among permanent staff, especially as the campaign periods for national and local elections approach. She acknowledged that while employees may have their preferred candidates, they are prohibited from engaging in campaign activities, including on social media, to avoid jeopardizing their positions.