Poll watchdog supports Comelec's implementation of health protocols for 2022 elections

Election watchdog Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) on Wednesday supported the Commission on Elections’ plan to implement health and safety protocols to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 during the campaign period for the 2022 elections.

In a statement, PPCRV said if Comelec “deems it prudent” to limit or even ban altogether face-to-face campaigning to stem COVID-19 infections, “this move should involve and have the support of the public, the candidates, political parties and the government in its implementation.”

The PPCRV suggested that the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) and other relevant government agencies, particularly the Department of Health, should be part of the discussions in drafting and implementing the 2022 elections-related safety and health protocols.

“It is important to have a nationwide information and education campaign to explain these guidelines to the public, candidates and political parties to mobilize support for its implementation, prevent voter disenfranchisement, and to ultimately ensure public and voter safety in the 2022 national and local elections,” it said.

On Tuesday, Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said they are considering a ban on face-to-face campaigning during the 2022 elections as the country is still struggling with the health crisis.

"As far as the Comelec is concerned the pandemic won't be over for quite a while in all practical terms," Jimenez said, as he speculated that not enough people would be inoculated next year despite the availability of vaccines.

He added that the Comelec is making its preparations based on the pandemic still being "in full force and effect."

However, Jimenez said he is not certain if such prohibition would be declared as the Comelec would still have to coordinate with the IATF.

Jimenez said the Comelec was also eyeing new rules and regulations for online election campaigns.

Cases of COVID-19 in the country hit 528,853 on Tuesday, February 2, 2021, including 487,611 recoveries and 10,874 fatalities.

There are also 30,368 active cases undergoing treatment or quarantine.

Vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said supply agreements for five COVID-19 vaccines will be completed by the end of the month.

The Philippines aims to secure 146 to 148 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines. —Ma. Angelica Garcia/KBK/AOL, GMA News