Comelec launches Operation Baklas for Eleksyon 2025

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) launched "Operation Baklas" on February 11, 2025, to remove unauthorized campaign materials as the official campaign period for Eleksyon 2025 begins.

In Antique, supporters of senatorial candidates and party-list groups were ordered to remove illegally posted and oversized campaign materials by February 10, 2025, with only posters measuring two by three feet allowed in public areas.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia announced that Operation Baklas would initially be held in Manila, starting in the Tondo district, and reminded candidates to respect campaign rules.

Campaign materials posted on private properties will not be removed, adhering to a Supreme Court decision.

The Comelec will strictly enforce rules against illegal posters and pursue criminal cases against violators.

The Comelec in the Negros Island Region (NIR) is undertaking "Oplan Baklas" to remove campaign materials from non-designated public places.

In Quezon City, around 300 personnel were deployed to remove campaign materials from streets.

Comelec Election Officer for District 5, Atty. John Fajardo, stated that campaign materials are not allowed in public places starting February 11, and emphasized that regardless of size, posters placed on trees, electric wires, or other prohibited areas are forbidden.

Garcia clarified that campaign materials for local candidates will not be removed yet as their campaign period starts on March 28.