COMELEC Orders Legal Action Against Candidates Pirating Songs
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is encouraging Filipino artists to file complaints against candidates who illegally use their songs for campaign purposes.
During election season, campaign teams often modify or use popular songs without permission to create campaign jingles. One such case was raised by the Filipino band Lola Amour, which reported that many candidates were using their songs without consent.
COMELEC Chairman George Erwin Garcia stated that artists like Lola Amour can formally file complaints, which will serve as the basis for legal action. The commission, in partnership with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), has an agreement in place to uphold intellectual property rights during the campaign period.
“Sinabi na po namin ‘yan bago pa magsimula ang campaign period sa national. ‘Wag nanakawin ang akda ng iba. ‘Wag nanakawin ang mismong lyrics ng iba. ‘Wag natin gagawin ‘yan kasi kawawa naman ang mga artistang Pilipino na nagpapakahirap. Intellectual property po nila ‘yan,” Garcia said.
Garcia emphasized that artists should not be forced to endorse candidates whose platforms they do not support or are unfamiliar with. He reminded candidates that stealing lyrics or melodies is a violation of intellectual property laws and that artists put in hard work to create their music.
COMELEC assured the public that any formal complaints will be acted upon immediately, in coordination with IPOPHL. Candidates found guilty of copyright infringement may face legal consequences.
“Mayr’on kaming memorandum of agreement with IPOPHL…Sinabi namin basta may mag-complain sa ‘min agad naming aaksyunan ‘yan,” he added.
The issue emphasizes the importance of respecting intellectual property rights, especially in political campaigns. Artists are urged to take legal steps if their work is used without authorization, ensuring their rights and creativity are protected.
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