By Raphael E. Polintan

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) released its New Normal Manual in order to manage its response to the COVID-19 pandemic in the upcoming electoral season on February 18, 2022.

In the manual published on the poll body’s website, the 1275-page document outlined “the commission’s response to and management of all processes concerning the pandemic and post-pandemic new normal work situations,” including mandated guidelines voters must observe during the much-awaited May 9 elections.

According to the manual, face shields are optional when voting in areas under alert levels one to three. However, face masks and physical distancing are still compulsory in compliance with established safety standards.  

Contactless temperature checks will also be conducted upon entering polling places as recommended by the Department of Health (DOH). Individuals with a temperature of at least 37.5°C will be temporarily held and screened by medical personnel. If determined to have a fever, the voter may cast their vote in an isolated polling place.  

The poll body is also probing possible health protocol violations during the campaigns for the May 9 elections. Although no formal complaints have been filed against any candidate, the commission is still evaluating reports of possible infractions.

According to COMELEC guidelines, face-to-face campaigns and political gatherings will only be allowed if permitted by the Comelec Campaign Committee (CCC). Entering private property and engaging in physical contact with voters are also prohibited.

As of Tuesday, February 22, 76 days remain until the 2022 elections according to COMELEC’s website. Candidates have been actively campaigning around the country to gain support for their bids to secure positions in the government.

Sources:

Commission on Elections. (2022, February 18). New normal manual. https://comelec.gov.ph/?r=AboutCOMELEC/NewNormalManual

Cruz, R. G. (2022, February 21). Comelec drops face shield requirement in ‘new normal’ manual. ABS-CBN News. https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/02/21/22/comelec-drops-face-shield-requirement-in-new-normal-manual