Authorities Launch Campaign to Remove Illegal Election Posters
CAMPAIGN POSTERS – Crackdown on illegal campaign Posters kicks off as authorities take decisive action to ensure fair elections.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has launched a rigorous crackdown on illegal campaign materials, warning candidates and party-list groups that failure to comply with election regulations could lead to their disqualification. Starting today, notices will be issued to violators, who will have three days to remove illegal election propaganda, according to Comelec Chairman George Garcia.
“The Comelec will not hesitate to disqualify them for election offenses,” Garcia stated, emphasizing the severity of the consequences. Offenders could face up to six years in prison and a lifetime ban from holding public office. Furthermore, the proclamation of winning candidates may be suspended if they fail to comply.
During the 2023 village and youth council elections, the Comelec issued show-cause orders to more than 7,500 candidates for not removing illegal campaign posters, leading to the suspension of 253 winners. Garcia urged the public to assist in this initiative by reporting erring candidates. “Let’s show them that this is a revolution of the voters. Flood the Comelec with pictures so we can inform our local offices,” he said.
To enforce the law, the Comelec initiated “Oplan Baklas” at the start of the national campaign period, targeting illegal campaign materials, particularly those made from non-biodegradable materials. Any campaign material displaying a candidate’s face will be presumed to have been placed with their knowledge, Garcia explained. He also expressed confidence that the Supreme Court would uphold the Comelec’s decisions if disqualified candidates challenge them.
In addition to physical campaign materials, Comelec will closely monitor social media activities, particularly the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Candidates failing to disclose AI-generated campaign content will be held accountable for an election offense.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported a peaceful and orderly start to the 90-day national campaign period, with fewer election-related violent incidents compared to the 2022 elections. While no areas have been placed under Comelec control, 38 locations remain under the red category due to a history of election-related violence.
According to the report, PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to neutrality, ensuring no partisan involvement. He also warned that officers engaging in political activities would face sanctions.
In line with election laws, politicians are banned from cash aid distribution areas during the campaign period. Garcia reminded local officials that only social workers should be present during such events. Additionally, all forms of aid distribution will be prohibited ten days before the elections.
The inter-agency group led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has yet to submit official guidelines on aid distribution, delaying the implementation of exemptions for certain programs like the Ayuda sa Kapos Ang Kita Program (AKAP).
With strict enforcement of election laws, the Comelec aims to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process, urging candidates and voters alike to adhere to the rules and promote a clean campaign.
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