Comelec warns candidates on illegal campaign materials

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is warning candidates that illegal campaign materials must be removed or they face disqualification and election offenses.

Comelec Chairperson George Garcia stated that while initial removals had no violations, candidates will now receive letters and have three days to remove illegal materials after receipt, or face consequences.

The official campaign period for local positions began Friday, March 28, with Comelec personnel nationwide removing illegal posters.

Illegal campaign posters are defined as those found outside designated common poster areas, exceeding two feet by three feet in size, or improperly placed.

The Fair Election Act allows for election paraphernalia in common poster areas but prohibits placement on electrical posts and trees.

Comelec is also encouraging local government units (LGUs) to enact ordinances that would penalize violations of campaign poster guidelines.