Political advertisements dominate our TV screens once again. Of course, election fever is upon us. Do you ever wonder why these political advertisements are airing this very early? Isn't this premature campaigning that could disqualify those who have manifested their intention to run?
The answer is no. The Philippine Supreme Court, in Penera v. Comelec, G.R. No. 181613, 25 November 2009 said a person becomes a candidate only at the start of the campaign period for which he filed his certificate of candidacy. In this regard, a candidate is liable for election offenses only upon the start of the campaign period.
Since these people with political advertisements have not yet filed their respective Certificate of Candidacies, they can lawfully air these materials.
Read the full text of the Supreme Court decisions Here
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