Comelec tells poll bets:  Take down illegal campaign materials now

MANILA — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is giving candidates in the May election a three-day grace period to take down illegally posted campaign materials.

“As soon as I step out of my house, I saw several posters that are in prohibited areas, including trees and major thoroughfares. It’s a little disappointing,” said Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez, on Tuesday.

“We’re giving them a three-day grace period to take down those materials,” he added.

Jimenez reminded candidates of their responsibility of removing their election paraphernalia posted in prohibited areas.

The Comelec earlier inked a memorandum of agreement with the Metro Manila Development Authority and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to ensure an eco-friendly campaign.

The MOA authorizes DPWH and MMDA to take down campaign materials posted outside designated areas.

The poll body started its online “shame campaign” on Tuesday, the first day of the campaign period for the May elections, against candidates who violate campaign rules.

“Use #SumbongKo sa @COMELEC to send reports of campaign violations & other election-related infractions, offline AND online. #PiliPinas,” Jimenez said on his Twitter account.  SFM