There’s a reason why there’s not much buzz about the barangay and SK elections this month — candidates are generally avoiding premature campaigning. Our podcast guest Atty. Ona Caritos of LENTE, a prominent election watchdog, says the Comelec has shortened the campaign period and warned against campaigning before or after it.

Make no mistake, says Atty. Caritos, the barangay elections are important because the barangay is where most citizens experience government and public service. In many places, it’s also where bases of power are formed for higher office.

The Sangguniang Kabataan elections on the same day are unique in at least one major way — it’s the only elections where members of political dynasties are disqualified from running. The application of a ban on dynasties in the SK elections may provide a template for other elections.

The October 30 elections will be manual. Could its successful conduct return us to the pre-automated system for the next elections? Atty Caritos weighs in.

Vote buying has become easier with mobile and online payment systems. That hasn’t deterred watchdog groups like LENTE from trying to stop it, now with the help of the PNP.