Comelec to crack down on illegal campaign materials

Before the start tomorrow of the campaign period for national candidates in the May 2025 midterm polls, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) reminded all senatorial bets and party-list groups to voluntarily remove all their illegal campaign materials.

- By MAYEN JAYMALIN

Comelec Chairman George Garcia said the poll body will strictly enforce rules against illegal posters and will file criminal cases against violators.

"Once it's Feb. 11, they all turn from aspirants, to candidates. Because of that, we will enforce the election laws, especially regarding posters and campaigning," Garcia said in Filipino in a radio interview yesterday.

"Those that are large-sized, especially in public places, we will have them removed and if we want, file criminal cases for the election offense," he said.

Under Comelec regulation, all prohibited forms of election propaganda must be immediately removed by the candidate or party at least 72 hours before the start of the campaign period.

"Don't be stubborn. The vote of the Filipino is for those who follow laws and policies," the poll chief said, while encouraging candidates to set a good example for voters.

At the start of the campaign period, Garcia said the Comelec would also mount "Oplan Baklas" to remove all campaign materials that were illegally installed on trees, foot bridges, electric posts and other public places.

However, he said the Comelec cannot remove campaign materials from private properties in compliance with the Supreme Court ruling.