Manila, Feb. 19 -- The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will penalize those bullying or discriminating against candidates and supporters during the campaign period for national and local aspirants.

In Resolution 11116 promulgated on Wednesday, the poll body noted that acts of bullying women and certain sectors during the campaign period are considered a violation and may constitute an election offense.

"During the election period, any person who, directly or indirectly, committing acts of bullying on the basis of HIV status, coercion, discrimination, against women, discrimination against PWDs (persons with disabilities), on the use of public accommodations, gender-based harassment, labeling public ridicule against PWDs, vilification of...