The Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Cebu is all set for the filing of certificates of candidacy (COC) for the 2022 elections that are set to begin on Friday (Oct. 1).
The government has included in its preparations the deployment of police and military personnel, bomb squad, and disaster response teams to implement security protocols within Comelec’s vicinity. A simulation exercise was also conducted.
The Comelec said it is still looking for possible sanctions to be imposed on candidates who will violate health protocols which are “subject already to our COVID protocols.”
Only two candidates are allowed at a time inside the Comelec office during the filing of COCs. Cebu City Police Station 3 commander Maj. Edgar Labe said they are discouraging the organization of convoys and the use of musical bands due to the threat of COVID-19.
Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia and former Tourism Secretary Ace Durano are the possible candidates for governor, while acting Mayor Michael Rama and Rep. Bebot Abellanosa are expected to run for mayor in the city.
The Cebu Emergency Operations Center (EOC) urged all political candidates to encourage their supporters and personnel to be vaccinated amid the expected conduct of political gatherings.
The EOC earlier expressed concern over possible superspreader events leading to the elections. – Report from John Aroa/AG-rir
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