The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has publicly declared its firm support for the recently revived legislative effort in the Senate to pass an "anti-epal" bill. This proposed law is designed to significantly aid the electoral body in its ongoing battle against the Abuse of State Resources (ASR), a practice where government assets are improperly utilized for political gain.
Comelec Chairman Advocates for Legislative Support
During a detailed media briefing, Comelec Chairman George Garcia explicitly stated the commission's backing for the bill introduced by Senator Erwin Tulfo. The legislation specifically aims to prohibit politicians from participating in or overseeing the distribution of any form of government assistance, particularly during sensitive periods like election campaigns.
Addressing Vote Buying Concerns
"We support any initiative to limit public expenditure and simultaneously address Abuse of State Resources because it often amounts to vote buying," Garcia emphasized. He clarified that the passage of this law would effectively ban the presence of politicians during government aid distributions, which is a common tactic used to influence voters.
Strategic Impact on Election Integrity
According to Garcia, enacting this anti-epal legislation would provide substantial assistance in Comelec's struggle against ASR during election seasons. By restricting political figures from leveraging public resources, the bill seeks to create a more level playing field and enhance the fairness of electoral processes.
The commission's endorsement highlights a proactive step towards strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that government resources are used appropriately, rather than as tools for political advantage.
