Comelec’s ‘#SumbongKo’ vs campaign offenses shifts into high gear

COMELEC Chairman Andres Bautista INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / ELOISA LOPEZ

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has commenced its online “shame campaign” on Tuesday, the first day of the campaign period for the May elections, against camps which will violate campaign rules.

On his Twitter account, Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said that netizens can report election-related infractions by using the hashtag #SumbongKo.

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

He has already uploaded on Twitter photos of campaign materials which were illegally posted in prohibited areas such as trees, lampposts, and main city thoroughfares.

Some of the campaign materials that Jimenez reported belonged to presidential aspirant Senator Grace Poe, senatorial hopefuls Francis Tolentino, Rey Langit, and Sandra Cam and party-list Abakada.

READ: Comelec to start ‘shame campaign’ vs illegally posted election materials

Netizens should post the photo along with the date and location where the infraction was committed.

Meanwhile, the Comelec spokesperson reminded candidates that they are the ones responsible in removing their election paraphernalia posted on prohibited areas.

“The campaigns are responsible for removing propaganda materials that violate the rules. Do it for your candidate, if not for the nation,” he said.

Last week, the Comelec 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 Comelec first started the #SumbongKo campaign during the 2013 polls. CDG

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