Elected barangay officials may participate in ‘partisan political activities’ as clarified by Commission on Elections (Comelec), which includes the signature drive for the People’s Initiative, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin “Benhur’’ Abalos Jr. said.
In a statement, Abalos stated that the pertinent portion of the Comelec Resolution provides as follows: "Elective Barangay officials (are) excepted from the prohibition [on partisan political activities] under Section. 261 (i) of the Omnibus Election Code."
“As it is, ang lumalabas talaga ay pupwede (this is permitted for elected barangay officials to participate in the people's Initiative),” Abalos said.
However, Abalos explained that the DILG needed to clarify with the poll body on the extent of the allowable participation, such as whether barangay halls may be used for the activity.
The DILG chief described the ‘’People’s Initiative as a very sensitive issue’’ as he appealed to his subordinates to be mindful when issuing statements that could be misconstrued as the official position of the agency.
Abalos vowed to immediately inform the public regarding any clarification by Comelec on the matter, which he expects to come out within the week.