THE Metro Manila Development Authority has started removing campaign materials posted in prohibited areas as part of its “Oplan Baklas” campaign, a joint effort with the Commission on Elections and the Philippine National Police.
Prohibited areas include electrical posts, bridges and overpasses, main buildings, public buildings, center islands, and trees.
Those who violate the rules could be sentenced to one to six years of imprisonment.
The candidate featured in the materials will also be charged if it is proven that he gave instructions or permission for his campaign materials to be posted in illegal areas.
The MMDA group started this campaign along Lacson Avenue in Manila, from SM Sta. Mesa all the way to Dimasalang and to España Avenue.
MMDA personnel took down tarpaulins hanging from lamp posts, plastered on foot bridges and sidewalks, and nailed onto trees.
“Those are not allowed as there are designated common poster areas. Those posted on electric lines are dangerous. Violators will be penalized. We take photos before, during, and after. Then we show it to the chairman who will then coordinate with the Comelec,” said team leader Francis Martinez.
The MMDA said that in the last elections, illegally posted campaign paraphernalia from all over Metro Manila filled about 22 trucks.
Authorities warned candidates and supporters that campaign materials would be removed unless they are in common poster areas, including some public markets and parks identified by the city government and the Comelec.
Comelec spokesman James Jimenez said the illegal posting of election materials are very visible despite the numerous warnings and reminders.
“It’s disappointing to see that many [violations], such as those nailed to trees. Again, that is very disappointing. I don’t think the Comelec was amiss, nor the people, in reminding candidates of our disdain for such practices,” he said in a press conference.
Jimenez added that they have been receiving reports, including those from their deputized agencies like the MMDA, regarding numerous violations of election campaign rules.
He warned that they will give erring candidates only three days to take down the illegally placed campaign materials.
Candidates who will fail to comply with the order will be summoned by the poll body.
“We will submit them to the Law Department for evaluation, whether or not they can be cited for violations of the Omnibus Election Code,” he added.
Jimenez again called on the public to report violations by posting them on social media with the hashtag #SumbongKo.
“What is important is that the materials are documented and once they are documented, then, we can take them down,” Jimenez said.
Other election violations may also be reported to the Comelec such as raffles, contests, and other activities that promise cash prizes or gift items.
Jimenez also reminded candidates that conducted kick-off rallies on Tuesday to immediately take down their streamers posted in their respective venues.
Under Comelec Resolution No. 10049, streamers for the public meeting or rallies may be displayed five days before the date of the meeting and should be removed within 24 hours after the event. With PNA
