Election Cleanup: Crackdown on Illegal Campaign Posters Kicks Off
CAMPAIGN POSTERS – Election crackdown begins as authorities target thousands of illegal campaign posters nationwide.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has intensified its efforts to eliminate illegal campaign materials, warning candidates and party-list groups that non-compliance with election regulations could result in disqualification. Beginning today, violators will receive notices and must remove unauthorized election propaganda within three days, according to Comelec Chairman George Garcia.
“The Comelec will not hesitate to disqualify them for election offenses,” Garcia emphasized, highlighting the serious consequences. Those found guilty could face up to six years in prison and a lifetime ban from public office. Additionally, 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 over 7,500 candidates for failing to take down illegal campaign materials, leading to the suspension of 253 winners. Garcia called on the public to participate in this initiative by reporting violators. “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 urged.
To enforce regulations, the Comelec launched “Oplan Baklas” at the start of the national campaign period, focusing on removing illegal campaign materials, particularly those made from non-biodegradable materials. Garcia stated that any campaign material featuring a candidate’s face would be presumed to have been placed with their knowledge. He also expressed confidence that the Supreme Court would uphold Comelec’s decisions if disqualified candidates challenge them.
Beyond physical campaign materials, Comelec will closely monitor social media, particularly the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Candidates who fail to disclose AI-generated campaign content will be held accountable for an election offense.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported a peaceful start to the 90-day national campaign period, with fewer election-related violent incidents compared to 2022. While no areas have been placed under Comelec control, 38 locations remain under the red category due to a history of election-related violence.
PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil reaffirmed the police force’s neutrality and warned officers against engaging in political activities, stating that violators would face sanctions.
In compliance with election laws, politicians are prohibited from appearing at cash aid distribution events during the campaign period. Garcia reminded local officials that only social workers should oversee such activities. Additionally, all forms of aid distribution will be banned ten days before the elections.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has yet to release official guidelines on aid distribution, delaying exemptions for specific programs like the Ayuda sa Kapos Ang Kita Program (AKAP).
By strictly enforcing election laws, Comelec aims to maintain a fair and transparent electoral process, urging candidates and voters to follow the rules and support a clean campaign.
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