The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has caught five senatorial candidates breaking the rules for campaign materials in the upcoming 2025 midterm elections.
According to Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia, these candidates consistently violated the guidelines in various regions of the country.
What Rules Did They Break?
Comelec found that some candidates:
✅ Used oversized posters and banners.
✅ Placed campaign materials outside the approved areas.
✅ Ignored eco-friendly guidelines, using materials that harm the environment.
“We initially flagged five Senate bets who repeatedly violated the rules across different regions,” Garcia explained.
What Are the Official Campaign Material Rules?
The Comelec has strict guidelines on how campaign posters should be made and where they can be placed. Here’s a breakdown:
📌 Poster Size Limit:
✔ Posters made of cloth, paper, or cardboard must be no bigger than 2 feet by 3 feet.
✔ Streamers used for public rallies must be no larger than 3 feet by 8 feet.
📌 Where Can Campaign Materials Be Placed?
✔ Government-owned electronic boards
✔ Public transport vehicles and terminals
✔ Waiting sheds and sidewalks
✔ Public schools
📌 Where Are They NOT Allowed?
❌ Public places outside the designated areas
❌ Private property without the owner’s permission
Comelec’s Warning: Follow the Rules or Face Charges
Comelec is strictly enforcing its regulations to keep elections fair and protect the environment. Chairperson Garcia reminded all candidates to use biodegradable materials, warning that legal action will be taken against those who damage the environment through their campaign efforts.
“Oplan Baklas” – Removing Illegal Campaign Materials
Comelec has launched “Oplan Baklas”, an operation where they:
🔹 Issue notices to candidates with illegal campaign materials.
🔹 Give them three days to remove the violations.
🔹 File election offense cases against those who fail to comply.
Violators could even face disqualification from the elections!
Election Timeline: Mark Your Calendars!
📅 Campaign period: February 11 – May 10, 2025
📅 Election Day: May 12, 2025
Comelec is keeping a watchful eye to ensure a fair and clean election. Candidates better follow the rules—or face the consequences! 🚨
