TARLAC CITY – The Commission on Elections in Tarlac reminded political candidates and their supporters to use environment-friendly and sustainable campaign materials.
Provincial Election Supervisor Fernando Cot-om said that papers, cardboards, cloth and other recyclable materials must be utilized to preserve the natural resources, and minimize harm to the environment.
“I hope political candidates as well as their supporters would adhere to this rule. Take note that this new requirement prohibits election propaganda made of single-used plastics, styrofoam, non-biodegradable materials, materials containing hazardous substances and others,” Cot-om explained.
He added that billboards, posters and standees must not exceed 2’x3’, while pamphlets, leaflets and stickers must comply with the 8 ½ inches x 14 inches allowable size.
Streamers more than 3’x8’ in size are considered as unlawful election paraphernalia.
“Political candidates may place streamers not exceeding 3’x8’ in their headquarters until the end of the campaign period. These streamers can be displayed at the venue of the candidates’ public meeting or rally, provided that they will remove them after the event,” he stressed.
The campaign period for local candidates will run from March 28 until May 10 except Maundy Thursday (April 17) and Good Friday (April 18).
Also, Cot-om urged bets and supporters to place their election paraphernalia in designated common poster areas such as plaza, public markets, barangay centers, parks and basketball courts.
Hanging or pinning of campaign materials in streets, bridges, public schools, trees, electric posts or wires, traffic signages, public structures or buildings, public motor vehicles, waiting sheds, sidewalks or flowering plants and shrubs along public roads is illegal.
“Candidates can place posters in private properties as long as there is a written consent of the owner,” Cot-om noted.
Lastly, he advised political candidates to refrain from using obscene or discriminatory content in their materials.
A single or multiple violation of these guidelines could lead to election offenses punishable by law as stated in the Omnibus Election Code. (CLJD/TJBM, PIA Region 3-Tarlac)