Reminder from the US Embassy.

[Balisidar]

U.S. Embassy Manila, Philippines  

U.S. Consular Agency Cebu, Philippines  

March 30, 2022 

 

Message for U.S. Citizens:  Restrictions for Foreign Nationals during the Philippine Presidential and Local Election Campaign Period  

The 2022 Philippine presidential and local elections are scheduled to be held on May 9, 2022.  As the election nears, we remind U.S. citizens that foreign nationals are prohibited by Philippine law from engaging in partisan political activities in the country.  The election period officially ends June 8, 2022.

For their safety during the election period, foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, are discouraged from participating in large rallies or crowds.  Foreign nationals found engaging in a protest or mass demonstration could be considered in violation of their immigration status, as stated in Operation Order SMB-2015-026.

Civilians are reminded to continue to observe COVID safety measures, including the wearing of masks and social distancing, throughout the election period.

The Philippine Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has measures in place to ensure the safety of civilians during the election campaign period:

• In accordance with the gun ban currently in effect for the election season, COMELEC Resolution 10728 stipulates that civilians, both local and foreign, are not permitted to carry firearms outside of their residences.
• There will be at least one checkpoint in each town or city manned by military or police personnel who will be in complete service uniform with visible name plates or identification tags.
• Checkpoint personnel cannot require motorists to open the vehicle’s trunk or glove compartment but may ask routine questions of the vehicle driver or occupants.

 For further information on local safety and security measures during the Philippine election period, please consult:

• Philippine Commission on Elections:  COMELEC
• Philippine National Police:  PNP
• Philippine Department of the Interior and Local Government:  DILG

_____________________________________________________________________________

 

For further information and assistance:  

• U.S. Embassy in the Philippines:  +63(2) 5301-2000; ACSInfoManila@state.gov
• State Department – Consular Affairs 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 
• Philippines Country Specific Information
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts
• Follow us on Twitter and Facebook 

 

 

 

Edited March 31, 2022 by Balisidar

[Mike J]

A good reminder, especially for those expats who may be new to the Philippines.

[Dave Hounddriver]

I am a bit confused with the title.  Since Philippine presidential and local elections only happen once every 6 years (plus a midterm election half way through), what makes this a "yearly" reminder?

[Jollygoodfellow]

4 hours ago, Dave Hounddriver said:

I am a bit confused with the title.  Since Philippine presidential and local elections only happen once every 6 years (plus a midterm election half way through), what makes this a "yearly" reminder?

it covers the 6 years before and 6 years after the election and every year in between to be safe

[OnMyWay]

Does this mean I have to scrape the BBM stickers off of my car?