The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has allowed candidates and their supporters to distribute sample ballots ahead of the May 12, 2025 national and local elections.
Comelec chairman George Garcia said the sample ballots were intended to serve as a helpful guide for voters in casting their ballots.
However, Garcia warned that the use of the official seal of the Commission on Elections is strictly prohibited in this process.
“As long as they don’t indicate the official seal of the poll body, that is allowed,” Garcia explained. He said those found using Comelec’s logo may face disciplinary sanctions.
‘We won’t stop anyone who can assist with voter education and share knowledge with our fellow citizens. However, make sure it doesn’t look like what you’re handing out is from the Comelec,” he added.
Garcia gave assurance that the sample ballots will not be used in the actual elections because the official ones have special security features that only the counting machines can read.
He also reminded candidates and their supporters not to hand out sample ballots the day before the May 12 elections or on the actual election day.
Don’t also use the children only because they don’t have a criminal liability, Garcia said.
