Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 413)
The main purpose of Republic Act No. 11207 is to provide reasonable rates for political advertisements by amending Section 11 of Republic Act No. 9006 (the Fair Election Act) to ensure discounted rates for registered political parties and bona fide candidates during the election period.
Media outlets must provide the following discounts from the average published rates charged in the last three calendar years prior to the election: 50% discount for television, 40% discount for radio, and 10% discount for print.
Yes, media outlets can provide higher discounts than those prescribed. However, the discount given to one candidate must be the same discount given to other candidates running for the same position.
No, under RA 11207, the rates charged to registered political parties and bona fide candidates cannot be higher than the rates charged to non-political advertisers.
RA 11207 amended Section 11 of Republic Act No. 9006, which is known as the Fair Election Act.
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is tasked with issuing the Implementing Rules and Regulations within thirty (30) days from the effectivity of RA 11207.
RA 11207 took effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette or any newspaper of general circulation.
All laws, decrees, executive orders, rules, regulations, and issuances inconsistent with the provisions of RA 11207 are repealed, amended, or modified accordingly.
Basing the discount rates on the average published rates over the last three years ensures that the discounts reflect fair and reasonable historical pricing, preventing sudden increases or manipulation of rates during election periods.
RA 11207 as provided in the text does not explicitly specify penalties for non-compliance; however, the Commission on Elections may enforce compliance through its Implementing Rules and Regulations.