THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) expressed disappointment over the prevalence of illegal campaign materials at the start of the election campaign for national positions on Tuesday.
Comelec Spokesman James Jimenez noted these illegal posting of election materials are very visible despite the numerous warnings and reminders they issued.
"It's disappointing to see that many (violations), such as those nailed to trees. Again, that is very disappointing. I don’t think the Comelec was amiss, nor the people, in reminding candidates of our disdain against such practices," he said in a press conference.
Jimenez added that they have been receiving reports, including those from their deputized agencies like the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), regarding numerous campaign rule violations.
With this, he warned that they will give concerned candidates three days to take down the illegally placed campaign materials or they expect notices and citation of materials from them.
"We will submit them to the Law Department for evaluations, whether or not they can be cited for violations of the Omnibus Election Code, whether or not they are electoral offenses, in other words," he added.
The poll body official said they asked for the support of the public to report to the Comelec campaign violations and to also post over social media using #SumbongKo.
"What is important is that the materials are documented and once they are documented, then, we can take them down as a form of abasement, as well," Jimenez added.
Other election violations may also be reported to the Comelec such as raffles, contests, and other activities that promise prizes in cash or kind.
Meanwhile, Jimenez reminded candidates that conducted kick-off rallies on Tuesday to immediately take down their streamers posted in their respective venues.
“Dear candidates holding kick-off rallies, propaganda material you've put up for the event must be taken down within 24 hours after your event,” he said.
Under Comelec Resolution 10049, streamers for the public meeting or rallies may be displayed five days before the date of the meeting and should be removed within 24 hours after the event.
Campaign violations constitute an election offense, which carries the penalty of one to six years imprisonment, removal of right to vote, and disqualification from holding public office. (FP/Sunnex)