The Commission on Elections warned candidates in the 2025 elections against politicizing government funded social programs, saying that it will not hesitate to disqualify and cause the imprisonment of violators.

The warning issued on Tuesday (December 17) by Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia was apparently directed towards politicians who have access to financial assistance programs like the Assistance for Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS); Ayuda para sa mga Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) and Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD), among others.

Garcia said politicians participating in next year’s mid-term elections should adopt a hands off policy when it comes to the distribution of support or assistance to qualified beneficiaries of the said programs.

AICS and AKAP should solely be implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development but this has not been the case since these two dole out programs received funding from government.

Politicians, particularly congressmen and senators, have been authorized to identify beneficiaries. The lawmakers themselves and their staff are seen managing the payouts.

Garcia said neither the presence of politicians or their campaign tarpaulins should be barred by the implementing agencies during the distribution of cash assistance during the 45-day election period.

He noted that many candidates for governor and mayor have already been disqualified by the Comelec for violating hte ban on disbursement of public funds.

According to the poll body, AICS distribution by the DSWD may still be allowed ten days before the 2025 election or from May 2 to May 12, 2025.