PNP supports MMDA’s policy prohibiting campaign caravans on weekdays

The campaign period for the 2022 national election has officially kicked off last February 8. In line with this, the chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) reminded 2022 poll candidates to observe and follow campaign guidelines. 

Campaign caravans are not allowed on major thoroughfares as per MMDA [Photo: Manny Pacquiao Facebook]

PNP chief General Dionardo Carlos supports the Metro Manila Development Authority’s (MMDA) directive that prohibits campaign caravans in major thoroughfares on weekdays. The MMDA previously released guidelines on campaign caravans stating that motorcades and/or caravans shall only be permitted during weekends and holidays between 5 a.m. to 10 a.m.   

Carlos said that the MMDA’s policy is practical since there is relatively lesser vehicle volume during weekends and holidays. 

“This will be practical since lesser volume of vehicles are out on the streets,” Carlos said.

“I hope that the candidates and their supporters will understand that they should not be the cause of delay for the general public,” Carlos explained.

The PNP chief also reminded 2022 poll bets that they need to secure necessary permits whenever they plan to conduct a campaign caravan or motorcade. 

“May we also remind them to get the necessary permit from the LGU (local government unit) concerned whenever they want to conduct a motorcade or caravan,” Carlos added.

Candidates need to secure a permit to conduct a campaign caravan [Photo: Manny Pacquiao Facebook]

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is also requiring candidates to secure permits for candidates who wish to hold motorcades. 

National Comelec Campaign Committee head Elaiza David said that the campaign guidelines for this year are different from the usual policy due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Candidates need to file an application with the respective Comelec Campaign Committee.    

“For those who will conduct in-person campaign or hold advance meetings or rallies, caucuses, caravan, or motorcade, they need to file an application with the respective Comelec Campaign Committee,” David said.   

“So for national candidates, their application should be filed with the regional offices of the Comelec. For local to provincial level to be submitted at the provincial offices of the Comelec. For municipalities, also in the offices of city or municipal election officers,” David added.

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