In a memorandum, Puno told DILG officials and employees to refrain from engaging in any partisan political activity except to vote on election day.

He warned that any DILG official or employee found to have engaged in partisan political activities during the election period could be held liable under Batas Pambansa 881 or the Omnibus Election Code.

Under BP 881, election offenses are punishable with imprisonment of not less than one year but not more than six years without probation. Persons found guilty of election offenses will also suffer the penalty of disqualification to hold public office and be deprived of their right to vote.

"With the start of the campaign period, all employees and officials of the Department should keep in mind that they must refrain from getting involved in any election-related activity, lest they be found liable for violations of the Omnibus Election Code and the rules and regulations imposed by the Commission on Elections to carry out the Fair Elections Act in relation to the May 14 elections," Puno said.

In his memorandum, Puno listed the following as prohibited partisan political activities:

1. Forming organizations, associations, clubs, committees or other groups of persons for the purpose of soliciting votes and/or undertaking any campaign for or against a candidate.

2. Holding political caucuses, conferences, meetings, rallies, parades or other similar assemblies for the purpose of soliciting votes and/or undertaking any campaign or propaganda for or against a candidate.

3. Making speeches, announcements or commentaries, or holding interviews for or against the election of any candidate for public office.

4. Publishing or distributing campaign literature or materials designed to support or oppose the election of any candidate.

5. Directly or indirectly soliciting votes, pledges, or support for or against any candidate.

Puno, concurrent chairman of the National Police Commission, said his directive also covers all personnel of the Philippine National Police.