As the dust settles from the May 12 elections, the conversation is shifting from campaign rhetoric to the environmental responsibility of candidates, particularly the urgent need to remove and properly dispose of campaign materials.
This call for action is echoed by environmental groups, urging the proper disposal of propaganda materials to prevent further degradation of landscapes, waterways, and public spaces.
The focus now is on ensuring that these materials don’t end up polluting the environment and contributing to the already overwhelming waste problem.
Since the start of the election season, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has consistently encouraged candidates to use environmentally-friendly, recyclable materials in their campaigns, as opposed to harmful chemicals and non-biodegradable substances.
The directive goes beyond simply removing campaign posters—it includes the repurposing and recycling of materials into useful, eco-friendly products such as eco-bags, reusable sacks, garden liners, and even roofing materials.
In an inspiring move, Roxas City Councilor-elect Fernando Luis Viterbo has taken action by removing his campaign materials and donating them to an upholstery shop. The shop plans to transform the materials into eco-bags, home décor items, and other useful recycled products.
Viterbo, in a heartfelt post on social media, shared that the recycled bags would be given out for free, a gesture that earned applause from his followers.
Several of Viterbo’s supporters even suggested that it would be interesting to receive a recycled bag with his image on it, adding a personal touch to the eco-friendly initiative.
This idea sparked a broader conversation, with former Capiz Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office head, lawyer Emilyn Depon, praising Viterbo’s actions.
“This initiative should be a precedent and emulated by others,” Depon remarked, highlighting the positive ripple effect that such actions could have on both local communities and the environment.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has partnered with Green Convergence, a multi-sectoral coalition dedicated to sustainable development, along with various civic organizations, to promote the responsible recycling and upcycling of campaign waste.
This collaboration is key to not only addressing the environmental impact of election materials but also encouraging more sustainable practices across various sectors.
As the campaign season wraps up, the true character of political candidates will be defined not just by their promises or posters, but by their actions, specifically their ability to clean up after the chaos of campaigning.
The emphasis is on candidates who understand that their responsibility to the environment extends beyond the ballot box, with every action taken after the election being an opportunity to demonstrate accountability and leadership in sustainability.
In the end, political candidates can continue to stand out, not only for their platform but for how they take responsibility in cleaning up the environmental mess left behind.
The true test lies in how they promote environmental responsibility, and it starts with small but impactful actions.
From platforms to ecoforms, the way forward is clear—responsibility begins with action, and the opportunity to make a difference is now. (AGP/AAL/PIA Capiz)
