THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) 7 has issued a total of 156 notices to candidates and political parties both local and national for posting campaign materials in prohibited areas from March 29 to April 4, 2025.
Of the total, 35 notices were served in Bohol and 121 in Cebu, according to Comelec 7 Director Francisco Pobe in an interview with SunStar Cebu on Tuesday, April 8.
He said the breakdown between local and national candidates is still being confirmed by the provincial election offices, but stressed that both levels of candidacy were covered by the notices.
The notices were issued in connection with Oplan Baklas, the poll body’s nationwide operation to dismantle campaign materials that violate election rules.
The operation coincided with the start of the national campaign period on Feb. 11 and the local campaign period on March 28.
A total of 8,796 posters and tarpaulins were removed across the region during the one-week period: 1,995 in Bohol and 7,241 in Cebu.
Compliance
Pobe said that campaign posters were commonly found mounted on trees and electrical posts, which are outside the designated common poster areas.
Under Comelec guidelines, campaign materials are only allowed in common poster areas, private property and private residences with the consent of the owner.
Any other location is considered a violation of the Fair Elections Act.
Pobe noted that most candidates appeared to have voluntarily complied with the 72-hour grace period given to remove the materials after receiving the notice.
“I’d like to believe they complied because, so far, we have not received reports from our election officers indicating otherwise. In fact, most candidates have already taken down the materials after being notified,” Pobe said.
Pobe reminded again all candidates that failure to remove illegal posters within 72 hours may result in legal consequences.
Disqualification
All violations will be documented and submitted to the Comelec Central Office in Manila, which may issue show cause orders.
“If they fail to respond properly, they could face disqualification complaints,” Pobe said.
He also urged candidates to refrain from using non-biodegradable materials for campaign posters, suggesting they opt for more environmentally friendly options.
Pobe said campaigning is not allowed during Holy Week and reminded candidates that the prohibition extends until May 10.
As of now, no formal complaints have been filed involving alleged scheming or violations between candidates.
However, Pobe emphasized that if complaints are filed and violations are confirmed, the Comelec can issue a show cause order and initiate disqualification proceedings. / CAV