CLAIM: The distribution of sample ballots bearing the names of candidates on election day is illegal.
RATING: Accurate
Several voters criticized the illegal distribution of sample ballots in some polling locations nationwide on the morning of election day, May 9, 2022.
Facebook user Elaija Bautista posted on Facebook five photos of citizens handing out sample ballots outside a polling precinct in District 2 of Las Piñas City, while Twitter user @reginareyes posted a video of two women distributing such materials outside the Dolores Elementary School in Taytay, Rizal.
These sample ballots bore the names of the allies of the Villar and Aguilar political families. These include Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. for president, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio for vice president, and the tandem’s senatorial slate.
Several social media users have called out the practice, saying it is illegal. They are correct.
Commission on Elections (Comelec) Commissioner George Garcia told ABS-CBN’s TeleRadyo on May 8 that the distribution of sample ballots is prohibited since it is considered a form of campaigning, and the campaign period ended on May 7.
Read the full story on The Varsitarian.
