Lift poll spending ban in Mayon areas

ALBAY Second District Rep. Jose Maria Clemente "Joey" Salceda has proposed the exemption of national government agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Mayon-affected areas from the election period spending ban so as not to hamper ongoing humanitarian relief work.

"Any minute, Mayon could erupt violently. This could also be a prolonged evacuation effort. Nobody knows for sure. But it's better to be safe and be ready with all the relief programs we need — this could extend beyond the barangay (village) elections," Salceda said in a statement on Saturday.