COMELEC assures safe 2022 polls despite pandemic

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has assured the public they are doing all their best to ensure the safe conduct of next year’s despite the Covid-19 pandemic.

Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said in a virtual press briefing their agency is doing everything to make sure the elections will be safe.

Jimenez’ assurance indirectly responded to Sen. Francis  Pangilinan’s statement that if the government is not able to manage the health crisis, it could lead to a low number of voters’ participation or even a postponement of the 2022 elections.

“Ultimately, we believe it will boil down to individual responsibilities. So it is not just about the Comelec securing the elections because Comelec will only secure the areas of the elections under its control.

Citing the success of the Palawan plebiscite in March, Jimenez said the orderly conduct of the election also needs the cooperation of other stakeholders, particularly candidates and their supporters.

Jimenez said he sees no reason to postpone next year’s polls.