THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) is now requiring candidates for the 2025 national and local elections to register all internet-based campaign platforms with its Education and Information Department (EID) to combat disinformation for the upcoming polls.
Under Resolution 11064-A, the poll body required official social media accounts and pages, websites, podcasts, blogs, vlogs, and other online and internet-based campaign platforms of candidates and parties participating in next year’s elections to be registered with the EID.
It added that only the candidates and their authorized representatives may submit the registration forms for their official online campaign platforms.
Comelec also asked candidates to submit a notarized affidavit promising not to use social media to spread disinformation or receive foreign funding for their campaigns.
Failure to register these platforms may result in complaints filed with Comelec, leading to requests for content removal or account blocking by social media companies.
Registration must be completed on or before Dec. 13, 2024, Comelec said.
The Philippines will hold midterm elections next year. Filipinos will elect their congressmen, mayors, vice mayors and members of city councils on May 12, 2025. Twelve of the 24-member Senate will also be replaced. — Chloe Mari A. Hufana