The Department of Agriculture’s (DA) subsidy programs for farmers and fisherfolk have been exempted from the election spending ban by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

During a hearing of the House of the committee on Wednesday, Comelec Commissioner George Garcia said the poll authority authorized the proposal “without any limitations or restrictions” because they “honestly believe that these are very important projects of the DA.”

“As far as the request of DA, your honor, it was already approved,” Garcia told the House Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms.

To be covered by the exemption are P1.1 billion worth of fuel subsidies for corn farmers and fisherfolk as well as cash support for rice farmers and the purchase of farming tools and machinery.

Agriculture Secretary William Dar has requested that the poll body allow the distribution of P3,000 fuel discount vouchers to all eligible corn farmers and fishers to continue.

The release, distribution, or spending of public funds is forbidden under Comelec Resolution No. 10747 during the campaign period, which runs from March 25 to May 8, 2022.

The Comelec had previously allowed the continuation of the distribution of assistance to drivers and operators of public transportation vehicles. – WhatALife! 

Source: (gmanetwork.com)

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Also read: Comelec allows LTFRB request to resume fuel subsidy distribution