Bullying on the basis of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status and discrimination against women are now considered election offenses, according to the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

Citing the Omnibus Election Code, the Comelec on Thursday said anyone "who directly or indirectly threatens, intimidates or actually causes, inflicts or produces any violence, injury, punishment, damage, loss or disadvantage upon any person or persons or that of the immediate members of his family, his honor or property" is considered an election offense.

The poll body said bullying on the basis of HIV status includes name-calling a person based on actual, perceived, or suspected HIV status.

It also includes bullying on social media and other online portals during the election period for any election-related activity "including but not limited to campaign activities."

Meanwhile, discrimination against women refers to any gender-based distinction, exclusion, or restriction that has the effect or purpose of impairing or nullifying the recognition, enjoyment, or exercise by women during the election period.

"It includes any act or omission, including by law, policy, administrative measure, or practice, that directly or indirectly excludes or restricts women in the recognition and promotion of their rights and their access to and enjoyment of opportunities, benefits, or privileges," Comelec noted.

Gender-based harassment, which refers to any unwanted and uninvited sexual actions or remarks against any person regardless of the motive, whether in-person or online, broadcast or in print, during the election period, is also considered an election offense.

Among the gender-based harassment acts include catcalling, wolf-whistling, unwanted invitations, misogynistic, transphobic, homophobic, and sexist slurs.

The Comelec earlier said that those liable for violating the rules would be charged and disqualified.

The 90-day campaign period for senatorial candidates and party-list groups started 11 February and will end on 10 May, while the 45-day period for local candidates will begin 28 March and end also on 10 May.