The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) and the Commission on Elections (Comelec) have renewed their partnership to provide legal assistance to teachers facing complaints while serving in the 2025 midterm elections.
Under the agreement, the IBP will provide free legal aid to teachers and electoral board members as part of Comelec’s commitment to protecting them from legal challenges arising from their election duties.
Comelec Chairperson George Garcia emphasized the need for support, noting that while serving in elections is not part of teachers’ official responsibilities, many still choose to volunteer.
“It is only right for the Comelec to ensure that all necessary assistance is provided to them,” Garcia said, noting that nearly a million teachers are expected to serve in the elections.
In addition to aiding teachers, the IBP will extend legal support to individuals reporting election-related anomalies, including vote buying.
Garcia also acknowledged that losing political candidates sometimes file cases against teachers and electoral board members, assuring them that they will not be left without legal protection.
To strengthen legal aid efforts, the IBP plans to set up legal assistance desks in every municipality and city before the local campaign period begins on March 28.
Furthermore, Comelec is set to formalize agreements with the Public Attorney’s Office and the Department of Education to enhance legal support for teachers.
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