By Rjay Zuriaga Castor
Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas has advised political parties and candidates to secure permits in advance when planning rallies or caucuses in barangay gyms.
The reminder came after a reported power outage disrupted a caucus of the rival party, Team Sulong Gugma, at the Barangay Veterans Village gym in the City Proper on Monday, March 31.
Supporters of Team Sulong Gugma, led by reelectionist Lone District Rep. Julienne Baronda, claimed the incident was “political sabotage.”
Treñas denied any involvement and clarified that Baronda’s party was granted a permit for the event.
“They were allowed to proceed despite lacking some requirements,” he said on Tuesday, April 1.
“They requested a permit in the morning and held their rally in the afternoon of the same day.”
To obtain a rally permit, a political party or candidate must first secure a Certification of No Objection from the barangay captain.
They must then apply for a “permit to hold rallies” from the local government unit.
Barangay Veterans Village Captain Celia Campo said she expedited the issuance of the Certificate of No Objection to the group’s coordinator.
This enabled them to obtain the necessary permit from the city government.
Treñas reiterated that permits are granted to all political groups, provided there are no schedule conflicts and all Commission on Elections (Comelec) guidelines are observed.
“I see no reason why any group would be denied permission to hold a political gathering,” he said.
Jonathan Sayno, Comelec-Iloilo City Assistant Officer II, confirmed that candidates may hold rallies or caucuses in barangay gyms as long as they follow the proper application process.
Sayno advised political parties and candidates to begin complying with requirements at least three days before the scheduled event.
He also confirmed that Team Sulong Gugma processed its permit on the same day as the rally, which was held that afternoon.
