Comelec adhering to infra ban

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) said Saturday it will adhere to the law postponing infrastructure and public works ahead of the 2025 midterm elections.

In a press briefing, Comelec chairperson George Garcia said Philippine law prohibits public works and social services before an election.

“As long as it has not been changed, we will implement it,” Garcia said.

However, the Comelec chief clarified they will allow projects that were already underway but will stop those that appear to have been started just for politicking.

“What will be difficult is when a politician just thought of a project because they are seeking election. They had been in the position for so long but because it’s the campaign period they’ll say, ‘I’ll fix this road,’ — we won’t allow that,” Garcia said.

Some exemptions

He said the Comelec will not hinder scholarships and financial aid programs, “as long as the intent is clear.”

Last December, the poll body exempted 48 infrastructure projects of the Public-Private Partnership Center from the ban on public works during the election period.

Among these are the University of the Philippines (UP) Philippine General Hospital Manila Cancer Center project, UP Philippine General Hospital Diliman project, Manila Central Post Office project, Metro Manila Subway project, and Boracay Bridge project.