Task force formed to remove unlawful campaign materials in Southern Leyte

MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Feb. 18 (PNA) –- The Department of Public Works and Highways Southern Leyte District Engineering Office (DPWH-SLDEO) is bracing for the removal of prohibited campaign materials in compliance to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) rules.

District Engineer Ma. Margarita Junia said the SLDEO will deploy a 15-man task force that will join the Comelec and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the lawful campaign drive.

The poll body has set the rules for campaigning through Comelec Resolution No. 10049 or the “Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Fair Elections Act for May 2016 elections.”

“The Comelec is the lead since they know where these common poster areas are and what the legal and illegal campaign paraphernalia are. DPWH will provide the manpower to remove campaign materials while the PNP will provide security personnel,” Junia said.

The DPWH-SLDEO will meet with Comelec and PNP officials to discuss plans and formally sign a deal on the “Oplan Baklas” program in Southern Leyte.

The poll body has allowed the following sizes for the materials in common poster areas: 12 feet x 16 feet (for political parties and partylist groups), 4 feet x 6 feet, (for independent candidates), and 2 feet x 3 feet (for individual posters).

During public rallies and meetings, considered as lawful are streamers not exceeding 3 feet by 8 feet in size displayed at the site and on the occasion of a public meeting or rally.

According to Comelec rules, said streamers maybe displayed five days before the date of the meeting or rally and should be removed within 24 hours after said meeting or rally.

Candidates may not put up campaign materials at highways, bridges, center islands, flyover, sky walks, under pass, trees, and other public places not designated as common poster areas.

Display or exhibit of any election campaign or propaganda material outside of authorized common poster areas, in public places, or in private properties without the consent of the owner is deemed illegal.

In headquarters or residence of candidates, only lawful campaign paraphernalia may be displayed.

The election period for candidates running for national positions has started on February 9. For local candidates, the campaign period will kick off on March 25. (PNA)
FFC/SQM/PR