Starting today, candidates and party-list groups failing to remove illegal campaign materials may face disqualification, even if they win the elections, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) announced.
Comelec Chairman George Garcia stated that notices would be issued today, giving candidates three days to remove unauthorized election propaganda.
“Comelec will not hesitate to disqualify violators for election offenses,” Garcia warned.
Candidates who fail to comply could face up to six years in prison and a lifetime ban from holding public office.
Additionally, the proclamation of winning candidates may be suspended if they refuse to remove unlawful materials.
During the 2023 village and youth council elections, over 7,500 candidates received show-cause orders for illegal campaign posters, and the proclamation of 253 winning candidates was suspended.
Garcia urged the public to report violations by submitting photos to COMELEC offices.
“Let’s show them this is a revolution of the voters,” he said.
At the start of the national campaign period, COMELEC launched "Oplan Baklas," removing illegal posters, especially those made of non-biodegradable materials.
If a campaign material displays a candidate’s face, COMELEC will assume the aspirant is responsible for its posting, Garcia added.
He also expressed confidence that the Supreme Court would uphold COMELEC's decisions if candidates challenge their disqualifications.
Garcia emphasized that candidates must report their use of artificial intelligence in campaign materials, as failing to do so constitutes an election offense.
‘Orderly’ first day
COMELEC reported an orderly first day of the 90-day national campaign period, with illegal posters removed from major roads like EDSA.
Election-related violence has declined compared to the 2022 elections.
No area has been placed under Comelec’s control, though 38 locations remain under the red category due to a history of political violence and rebel threats.
These areas could increase once the local campaign period begins.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed no election-related incidents on the first day.
“So far, it has been peaceful,” PNP Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said.
Police must be ‘apolitical’
PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil assured the public that law enforcement remains apolitical.
He addressed concerns after two online news outlets misinterpreted a police officer's statement about a manifesto supporting Vice President Sara Duterte.
While retired police academy alumni have the right to express political support, active officers engaging in partisan politics will be sanctioned, Marbil warned.
Garcia reiterated that politicians are prohibited from being present at cash aid distribution sites during the election period.
“Only social workers should be there, not politicians,” he stressed.
All forms of aid distribution are banned 10 days before elections unless guidelines are submitted to COMELEC.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has yet to provide the necessary regulations for exemptions.
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