The prohibitions spelled out by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) are indications that the electoral system itself

remains problematic. Resolution 9385 lists 24 prohibited acts, with one having taken effect even before the start of the election period. The prohibited acts are:

PRE-ELECTION PERIOD

(From May 13, 2012 to Aug. 11, 2013)

1. Transfer, promotion, extension, recall or otherwise movement of officer or member of the foreign service corps from current post or position.

ELECTION PERIOD

(From January 13, 2013 to June 12, 2013)

2. Alteration of territory of a precinct or establishment of a new precinct.

3. Transfer or movement of officers and employees in the civil service.

4. Bearing, carrying or transporting firearms or other deadly weapons, unless authorized in writing by the Commission.

5. Use of security personnel or bodyguards by candidates, unless authorized in writing by the Commission.

6. Organization or maintenance of reaction forces, strike forces o other similar forces.

7. Suspension of elective local officials.

(From Feb. 12, 2013 to May 13, 2013)

8. Giving donations or gift in cash or in kind, etc.

9. Appointment or use of special policemen, confidential agents or the like.

(From March 29, 2013 to May 13, 2013)

10. Appointment or hiring of new employees; creation or filling up of new positions; promotion or giving of salary increases, remuneration or privilege.

11. Construction of public works, delivery of materials for public works and issuance of treasury warrants or similar devices for a future undertaking chargeable against public funds.

12. Release disbursement or expenditures of public funds.

(From March 14, 2013 to June 12, 2013)

13. Illegal release of prisoners.

(From March 28 to 29, 2013)

14. Campaigning.

(On May 12, 2013, the eve of election day)

15. Campaigning.

16. Selling, furnishing, offering, buying serving or taking intoxicating liquor.

17. Giving, accepting free transportation, food, drinks and things of value.

ELECTION DAY

(On May 13, 2013)

18. Campaigning.

19. Selling, furnishing, offering, buying serving or taking intoxicating liquor.

20. Giving, accepting free transportation, food, drinks and things of value

21. Voting more than once or in substitution of another.

22. Soliciting votes or undertaking any propaganda for or against any candidate or any political party within the polling place or within 30 meters thereof.

23. Opening of booths or stalls for the sale, etc., of merchandise, or refreshments within a radius of 30 meters from the polling place.

24. Holding of fairs, cockfights, boxing, horse races or any other similar sports