The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expresssed its full support to the order of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) against discrimination of vulnerable sectors during the election period.

In Resolution No 11116, the Comelec said the discrimination against individuals from the vulnerable sectors -- like women and persons with disabilities (PWDs) -- will be treated as an election offense and violators will be held accountable.

The offenses includes bullying, coercion, discrimination against women and PWDs, gender-based harassment, labeling, violations of anti-discrimination ordinances, and infringements on the right to religious and cultural sites or ceremonies.

In a statement, the CHR said the action of the Comelec safeguards every Filipino's vote as "inviolable," therefore ensuring the preservation of the democratic process.

"CHR fully supports Comelec Resolution No. 11116 as a crucial step in protecting every Filipino voter’s right to participate in elections without fear of harassment, retaliation, or intimidation," it said.

It also cited the Comelec's recognition of the Supreme Court's ruling which details how acts of vilification, labeling, or guilt by association can harm individuals.

"Especially within the context of elections, it is essential to establish safeguards that protect voters from harassment and intimidation," it stressed.

In issuing the resoluton against discrimination, the Comelec said it will be forging partnerships with relevant government agencies, groups, and stakeholders to enhance voter and candidate awareness in combating stigma and prejudice during election season.

"This resolution underscores a collaborative approach, ensuring that the affected sectors are actively involved in making elections truly inclusive," the CHR said.

The relevant portion of Comelec's Resolution 11116:

“During the election period, any person who, directly or indirectly, commits acts of bullying on the basis of HIV status, coercion, discrimination, against women, discrimination against PWDs (persons with disabilities), on the use of public accommodations, gender-based harassment, labeling public ridicule against PWDs, vilification of PWDs, violation of an anti-discrimination ordinance, and/or violation of rights to religious, cultural sites, and ceremonies as defined under Section 2 of this Resolution shall be liable for an election offense pursuant to Section 13 of RA 9006 and Section 261 (e) of the OEC (Omnibus Election Code) and other pertinent laws, rules, and regulations."

The campaign period for the national elections on May 12, 2025 started last Feb. 11. For the local elections, the campaign period will start on March 28.