SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has initiated “Oplan Baklas” in La Union on Friday, targeting the removal of unauthorized campaign materials for national candidates.
“Oplan Baklas” aims to ensure compliance with election laws and maintain orderly public spaces throughout the campaign period.
In collaboration with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Comelec removed illegally placed posters across the province.
Initial efforts have focused on public infrastructures, including bridges and electric posts, resulting in the confiscation of numerous unauthorized campaign materials.
Lawyer Alipio Alonzo Castillo III, provincial election supervisor, emphasized that Comelec designates specific common poster areas where candidates are permitted to display their materials.
“If you look at the posters we removed, they were placed on public property walls, railings, overpasses, and bridges, places where posting is strictly prohibited,” Castillo stated.
Regarding campaign materials on private properties, Castillo clarified that Comelec does not intervene unless a property owner files a complaint about unauthorized postings.
In such cases, Comelec is authorized to remove the materials and take appropriate action.
Confiscated posters will be inventoried, submitted for legal action, and violators will be held accountable, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to fair elections and integrity.
This initiative underscores Comelec’s commitment to enforcing fair election practices and upholding the integrity of the electoral process. (AMB/KJCR, PIA La Union)
