THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) in partnership with other agencies tore down the campaign materials posted in unauthorized areas in one of the towns in Basilan province.
Colonel Gerry Besana, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) information officer, said this as the Comelec launched “Oplan Baklas” on Wednesday, April 24, in the municipality of Tipo-Tipo, Basilan.
Besana said the Comelec was joined by the troops of the Army’s 18th Infantry Battalion, police, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) in removing campaign posters in unauthorized areas.
The activity was in compliance with Comelec Resolution No. 10488 otherwise known as the “Fair Election Act.”
“Oplan Baklas” is the removal of illegally and inappropriately posted political campaign materials in connection with the advocacy of DENR to protect the trees under Republic Act (RA) 3571.
RA 3571 is otherwise known as “An Act to Prohibit the Cutting, Destroying or Injuring of Planted or Growing Trees, Flowering Plants and Shrubs or Plants of Scenic Value Along Public Roads, in Plazas, Parks, School Premises or in Any Other Public Pleasure Ground.” (Bong Garcia/SunStar Philippines)