February 12, 2025 | 12:00am

Strict Enforcement of Election Rules By Comelec Ensures Fair Play

MANILA, Philippines — Starting today, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) announced stringent measures against candidates who fail to remove illegal campaign materials. Failure to comply can result in the disqualification of candidates and party-list groups, even if they win in the polls. According to Comelec Chairman George Garcia, notices will be issued today, and candidates will have three days to remove the illegal election propaganda.

“The Comelec will not hesitate to disqualify them for election offenses,” Garcia stated. Violators could face up to six years in prison and a permanent ban from holding public office. Garcia further clarified that the proclamation of winning candidates might be suspended until compliance is achieved.

In the 2023 village and youth council elections, the Comelec issued show-cause orders to over 7,500 candidates who failed to remove illegal posters. Consequently, 253 winning bets saw their victories deferred. Garcia urged the public to assist in monitoring by reporting any illegal activities to the Comelec.

“Let’s show them that this is a revolution of the voters. Flood the Comelec with pictures so we can inform our local offices,” Garcia emphasized.

Initiating “Oplan Baklas”

The polity body initiated “Oplan Baklas” at the onset of the national campaign period, effectively removing illegal campaign posters, including those made with non-biodegradable materials. This proactive measure demonstrates the Comelec’s commitment to upholding electoral integrity.

Garcia further explained that if campaign materials depict candidates’ faces, the Comelec will assume the aspirant is behind the illegal posting. Despite potential appeals by candidates, Garcia expressed confidence in the Supreme Court ruling in favor of the Comelec.

Monitoring Social Media Campaigns

Alongside traditional campaign materials, the Comelec will monitor candidates’ compliance with reporting their use of artificial intelligence on social media. Failure to report AI usage is considered an election offense, a move to keep digital campaigns transparent and fair.

A Peaceful Campaign Period Begins

The first day of the 90-day national campaign period was deemed orderly by the Comelec. Many illegal campaign materials were removed from thoroughfares like EDSA. No red category areas were placed under the Comelec’s control, indicating ongoing security but no heightened concerns in specific regions.

No incidents were reported by the Philippine National Police (PNP) on the first day of the campaign period. Deployment will be increased in 403 towns and cities classified by the Comelec as election areas of concern.

PNP’s Commitment to Apolitical Conduct

The PNP chief, General Rommel Francisco Marbil, emphasized the force’s commitment to maintaining peace and order without any political influence. This reiteration comes after an incident where two online news websites misinterpreted a PNP Academy Class of 1991’s manifesto of support for Vice President Sara Duterte.

According to Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, the PNP spokesperson and Central Luzon police director, retired PNPA alumni have the right to express their support for political figures. Nevertheless, official police officers engaging in partisan politics will face sanctions.

“Ayuda Ban” Prohibits Political Involvement in Aid Distribution

Politicians are banned from participating in payout areas during the distribution of cash aid. Social workers are permitted at these sites to ensure neutrality and prevent the exploitation of aid distributions before elections.

All kinds of aid distribution are prohibited within 10 days preceding elections. The inter-agency group led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development must submit guidelines to the Comelec pertaining to aid distribution practices.

“We required the agency to submit guidelines. But until this time, we have not received any guidelines from the agency. That is why the first exemption that we gave for the AKAP will not be effective yet,” Garcia clarified, referring to the Ayuda sa Kapos Ang Kita (Help Against Poverty) Program.

This renewed emphasis on fair play and transparent campaign practices showcases the Comelec’s dedication to upholding democratic values in the upcoming elections. By ensuring compliance and accountability, the Comelec aims to protect the integrity of the electoral process and safeguard the rights of the Filipino voters.

As we approach election day, it is crucial for all stakeholders to adhere to these guidelines to ensure the fairness and transparency of the elections. Your compliance with these rules not only supports fair play but also contributes to a democratic process that respects the voices of all voters.

Join us in fostering a peaceful, orderly, and transparent election in the Philippines.