More bets mean more poll trash

SINCE the start of the campaign period for local posts, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has already collected 93 cubic meters or 10 truckloads of illegally posted election materials throughout Metro Manila.

The amount accounted for more than half of its total haul since it started cracking down on campaign materials displayed outside common poster areas in February, according to the agency.

According to MMDA Sidewalk Clearing Operations Group head Rod Tuazon, from Feb. 9 to March 27, they collected 113.47 cubic meters or 18 truckloads of illegally posted posters. The campaign for local positions kicked off on March 26.

The MMDA earlier said that it  expected an increase in the amount of illegally displayed election materials as local candidates start campaigning by distributing flyers and putting up their posters.

The “Oplan Baklas” campaign of the agency started on Feb. 9 and would continue until election day on May 9. It aims to get rid of campaign materials displayed outside common poster areas as designated by the Commission on Elections (Comelec.)

Tuazon said that because of the crackdown, political groups have become wary of posting their election materials indiscriminately.

“They are hesitant because they know that it will cost them too much. Once they put their campaign materials in the illegal zone, it will be removed by the MMDA eventually,” he added.

However, MMDA Chair Emerson Carlos said that only the Comelec could hold these violators liable for violating the rules.