MANILA – Candidates and political parties using social media and online platforms for their 2025 election campaigns must register their accounts with the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
Under a resolution issued on Sept. 17, the Comelec mandates that official social media accounts, websites, blogs, vlogs, and other digital campaign platforms designed to promote or oppose candidates be registered with its Education and Information Department (EID). The registration period runs from Nov. 8 to Dec. 13, following the filing of Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) from Oct. 1 to 8.
Crackdown on Digital Misinformation
The poll body also outlined prohibited digital campaign activities, including:
Use of fake accounts, bots, and coordinated networks to spread disinformation.
Creation and dissemination of deepfakes and manipulated content.
Utilization of fake and unregistered social media accounts.
Spreading false information about the elections or Comelec.
These violations may be considered election offenses under the Omnibus Election Code.
Task Force to Monitor Digital Campaigns
Comelec has formed “Task Force KKK sa Halalan” to oversee compliance, review registrations, and investigate violations. The task force will monitor both registered and unregistered online accounts used in election campaigns.
Key Election Dates
Election Period: Jan. 12 – June 11, 2025
Campaign Period:
Senators, Party-List Groups: Feb. 11 – May 10, 2025
Local Officials & House Representatives: March 28 – May 10, 2025
Campaign Blackout: April 17-18, 2025 (Maundy Thursday & Good Friday)
The new regulations aim to curb misinformation and ensure transparency in digital campaigning.
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