In a recent statement, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in the Cordillera region has firmly reminded candidates and their supporters to refrain from nailing campaign materials onto trees. Julius Torres, the regional director of Comelec, emphasized that campaign posters should be placed only in designated common areas. This directive comes as part of an ongoing effort to protect the environment during election campaigns.
Torres highlighted that while campaign materials can be displayed on private properties, candidates are strongly encouraged not to harm trees. He pointed out that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has laws in place that prohibit such actions, even on private land. The DENR has warned that nailing posters to trees can lead to their slow death.
Campaign materials are strictly limited to areas designated by Comelec, and are not permitted on electric posts, waiting sheds, or other public spaces not identified as common poster areas. Torres mentioned that ‘operation baklas,’ a campaign to remove improperly placed materials, is actively enforced in public areas. However, this operation does not extend to private properties, where Comelec has no jurisdiction to remove campaign materials.
The Philippine National Police and the Department of Public Works and Highways assist Comelec in these efforts, focusing on public spaces to ensure compliance with election regulations and environmental protection.