Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) announced on Tuesday that it will begin issuing notices to candidates for the removal of illegal campaign materials starting Wednesday. This initiative, part of Comelec’s ‘Oplan Baklas’, targets candidates running for national positions.

According to Philippines News Agency, Comelec Chairperson George Garcia, during a forum in Manila, warned that sanctions await winning senatorial candidates and party-list groups in the upcoming May 12 polls if they fail to comply with the notices. Garcia emphasized the consequences faced by candidates in the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections for similar offenses, mentioning around 7,500 issues of show cause orders and non-proclamation of winners.

Candidates and party-list organizations are required to remove illegally posted campaign materials within three days of receiving the notice. Garcia stated that failure to do so would result in legal action, including disqualification from the elections and potential imprisonment ranging from one to six years. He dismissed excuses that the materials were placed by political rivals, affirming that the candidates would be held responsible.

Public cooperation is being solicited, with Garcia urging citizens to send photos of illegal campaign materials to Comelec’s social media accounts. This will help local poll body offices take necessary action. Unlawful materials include posters, billboards, and tarpaulins exceeding specified dimensions, as well as those placed outside designated common poster areas like plazas and markets.

On the first day of the campaign period for national positions, Garcia reported a significant collection of paper materials, which will be accounted for and dissolved regionally. He noted an absence of large banners along major thoroughfares, describing the campaign’s commencement as satisfactory. The campaign period for senatorial candidates and party-list groups is scheduled to conclude on May 10.