Poll campaign violators
WITH just 80 days before election day, the government, through the Commission on Elections (Comelec), would do well to hit hard at poll campaign violators.
Without doubt, there’s a need for concerned government authorities, particularly poll officials, to enforce election laws, rules and regulations without fear nor favor.
Thus, it is heartening to know that the Comelec, together with deputized government agencies, has started dismantling illegal posters and other campaign materials.
The official campaign period for national candidates started February 8, while local bets may begin campaigning on March 25. The campaign period ends on May 7 (Saturday).
“Operation Baklas” is conducted nationwide pursuant to Comelec Resolution No. 10730, which implements the provisions of the country’s Fair Election Act.
The Department of Public Works and Highways and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority are helping the Comelec in ridding Manila of illegal campaign materials.
Candidates and their supporters are prohibited from posting their campaign materials outside the so-called common poster areas, which are usually public places.
The resolution also prohibits election campaign materials that do not comply with Comelec-prescribed sizes.
Posters should not exceed two feet by three feet, while streamers to be hanged in headquarters, as well as at campaign rallies, should not be more than 3 feet by 8 feet.
The presence of illegal campaign materials must cause great concern among the people, particularly the registered voters.
