The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Wednesday called on the Department of Agriculture (DA) and local government units (LGUs) to defer their plans to rollout the P20 per kg subsidized rice after the May 12 midterm polls.

In an interview, Comelec Chairman George Garcia said they are urging parties to the subsidized rice program to just push through with the rollout by May 13 despite its scheduled launching in the Visayas on Thursday.

"Our appeal to them is, if possible, just do the rollout after the elections. This way, no one will be accused that rice is being politicized," said Garcia.

Garcia said the Comelec wants to fully implement the ban on all types of government assistance within May 2 to 12.

"We want to stand firm on our policy of having no ayuda, distribution, or similar programs before Election Day, except burial and medical assistance," said Garcia.

The agriculture department can sell the rice through its Kadiwa rolling stores, Garcia said but local government units will need to secure a separate exemption from Comelec. DMS