Comelec: Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa movie may violate election law

MANILA, Philippines — Former Philippine National Police chief Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa may soon be in a bind — that is, if the film about his life with action star Robin Padilla in the lead role is shown during the campaign period for the midterm polls in May, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) said yesterday.

Comelec spokesman James Jimenez said people behind Dela Rosa’s biographical movie must ensure that it is shown before or after the campaign period to avoid putting the senatorial bet in hot water.

Should the movie be shown in theaters during the campaign period, those liable could be slapped with election offense cases, according to Jimenez.

“Whether or not there’s a boycott, there will still be a violation of election rules,” Jimenez said.

The “Fair Elections Act” prohibits the showing of a movie, cinematograph, or documentary portraying the life or biography of a candidate  in a theater, television station or any public forum during the campaign period.

Violation of the prohibition shall be considered an election offense with the penalty of one to six years of imprisonment, disqualification to hold public office and removal of their right of suffrage.

The campaign period for those running for national posts in the midterm polls is set to start on Feb. 12 and ends on May 11.

Padilla earlier posted on social media the “Bato: The Gen. Ronald dela Rosa Story” teaser trailer. The movie is reportedly slated to be shown in cinemas this year.