THE Commission on Elections-Davao Region (Comelec-Davao) successfully launched its “Oplan Baklas” campaign on February 11, 2025, to remove illegal and oversized campaign materials across the city.
The operation, designed to ensure fair and orderly elections, was carried out efficiently with no major incidents, according to Comelec officials.
In an interview with dxDC RMN Davao, Comelec-Davao Assistant Acting Regional Director, Lawyer Gay Enumerables, shared that the most frequently dismantled materials were those attached to electric poles and tree branches, which violated election regulations. Posters that exceeded the prescribed size limit of 2x3 feet were also targeted in the operation.
Enumerables said these efforts were aimed at maintaining the integrity of the election process by ensuring that campaign materials were properly displayed according to the rules.
She also provided details on the specific areas covered by the operation, which initially focused on Barangay Matina Crossing, Bangkal, Bypass Road, Puan, and Barangay Talomo along the Davao Coastal Road. The operation was secured by the 2nd Civil Military Command (CMFC), with support from local police stations, ensuring the process was carried out without disruption or violence.
The second district, encompassing areas such as Bunawan, Panacan, Sasa Airport, Dumanlas, Buhangin, Agdao, Cabaguio, Governor Paciano Bangoy, and Wilfredo Aquino, was similarly secured by the 2nd CMFC, with assistance from six nearby police stations.
Meanwhile, the third district, which includes Task Force Sirawan and Tugbok, was secured by the 1st CMFC, with support from three police stations in the areas.
Despite the removal of campaign materials, Comelec-Davao clarified that there are currently no penalties for the owners of the confiscated posters. However, candidates who repeatedly violate election rules may face charges under the Omnibus Election Code, highlighting the importance of complying with campaign guidelines.
With the Oplan Baklas campaign continuing to target illegal materials, Comelec-Davao stresses that candidates should adhere to the established protocols for poster placement, which include designated common poster areas and obtaining consent for private property display. DEF