In a move to enforce election regulations, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Antique has issued directives to senatorial candidates and party-list groups to take down their illegal and oversized campaign posters. This action follows the ‘Oplan Baklas’ initiative, which began on February 11, 2025, aimed at removing campaign materials from public spaces not designated for such use and those exceeding the allowed size of two feet by three feet.
During the operation, Comelec Assistant Regional Director and Antique Provincial Election Supervisor Wil Arceño noted that despite some efforts by candidates’ supporters to remove the illegal posters before the operation, many remained, particularly along national roads. Arceño emphasized that the Comelec will conduct weekly ‘baklas’ operations to ensure compliance with the Fair Election Act.
He warned that persistent non-compliance could lead to disqualification or charges of election offenses against the candidates or party-lists involved. Additionally, the Provincial Joint Security Control Center is set to meet next week to address the peace and order situation in Antique, with Tobias Fornier being the only municipality currently categorized as an area of concern due to intense political rivalry.