Don't Forget: There's a Liquor Ban Happening for the Elections
Here's what you should know about the upcoming elections.
(SPOT.ph) We might have gotten a long weekend thanks to the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), but don't forget a liquor ban will also be in place. After all, voting should be top priority on that day.
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) will be imposing a nationwide liquor ban from October 29 to 30 under Resolution 10924, which means that purchasing and drinking alcohol and spirits will be prohibited.
"It shall be unlawful for any person, including owners and managers of hotels, resorts, restaurants, and other establishments of the same nature to sell, furnish, offer, buy, serve, or take intoxicating liquor anywhere in the Philippines," it said in Resolution 10924.
Only foreign tourists in hotels, resorts, restaurants, and other similar establishments certified by the Department of Tourism as "tourist-oriented" will be exempted from the ban. Violators will be punished with a jail time of one to six years without probation, along with a permanent ban from public office.
“The Commission on Elections sternly reminds the candidates to be role models of good citizenship by strictly adhering to the applicable laws and issuances relative to campaigning,” the COMELEC said.
Also read: Long Weekend Ahead: October 30 Is a Special Non-Working Day for Barangay and SK Elections
Why is there a liquor ban?
A liquor ban during election season is implemented to promote the integrity of the electoral process by preventing incidents of violence, vote-buying, and undue influence related to alcohol consumption throughout the Philippines.
“We just want to maintain our peace and order in every community. Let us exercise the freedom of expression and right to suffrage in a calm and sacred manner,” Philippine National Police (PNP) Security Task Force Commander Gen. Vicente Danao Jr. was quoted as saying in 2022.
Can't go on a long weekend without a sip? Stock up on liquor at home in preparation for the ban. Drink responsibly and don't forget to vote first!
Also read: Election Liquor Ban: Can I Get a Drink Before or After I Vote?
Updates and other things to remember for the 2023 barangay elections
Campaigning period for the 2023 BSKE has just started today, October 19, and will last a little over a week until October 28.
Official voting hours will take place on October 30 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on this special non-working day. Senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and heavily pregnant women can come in to vote as early as 5 a.m.
In addition to school precincts, the 2023 BSKE will also be held in six SM Supermalls and five Robinsons Malls so voters won't have to wait in the heat.
Also read: Mall Voting Will Be Held in These Sites for the First Time in the Philippines