Wazzup Pilipinas!?
As the May 12, 2025, national elections approach, the proliferation of campaign materials in unauthorized areas has become a pressing concern in the Philippines. Environmental watchdog EcoWaste Coalition has issued a stern reminder to all senatorial and party-list candidates: refrain from placing campaign materials on lamp posts, utility poles, trees, and other prohibited sites.
This advisory comes in the wake of widespread violations observed in cities such as Caloocan, Manila, and Pasay, where campaign materials have been indiscriminately displayed in forbidden zones. EcoWaste Coalition, collaborating closely with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to promote environmentally sustainable elections, emphasizes the critical need for candidates to adhere to established regulations.
Understanding COMELEC Resolution No. 11111
COMELEC Resolution No. 11111 explicitly prohibits the posting of campaign materials outside designated common poster areas. The resolution also bans postings on private properties without the owner's consent and on public spaces, including streets, bridges, public structures, trees, electric posts or wires, schools, shrines, and main thoroughfares. Despite these clear guidelines, numerous violations persist, undermining both the aesthetic appeal of urban areas and environmental well-being.
Environmental and Safety Implications
The unauthorized placement of campaign materials poses significant environmental and safety risks. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has highlighted the detrimental effects of nailing posters and tarpaulins to trees, which can harm or even kill them. In a recent operation, the DENR removed over 114,000 illegally posted campaign materials from trees nationwide, underscoring the severity of the issue.
Moreover, utility companies have raised alarms about the dangers of affixing materials to electric posts. Davao Light and Power Co., Inc. pointed out that such practices not only pose safety hazards, including potential electrocution, but also lead to unscheduled power interruptions and hinder maintenance activities.
Calls to Action from Authorities
Local governments are also taking proactive measures. The Quezon City government has reminded both the public and political aspirants to responsibly place their campaign materials, strictly adhering to designated common poster areas as per city ordinances. Mayor Joy Belmonte emphasized the importance of respecting the city's beauty and following the law to prevent indiscriminate postings.
COMELEC has reiterated its commitment to enforcing these regulations. COMELEC Chairman George Erwin Garcia warned that the commission is actively working to demonstrate to candidates and political parties that violations will not be tolerated, emphasizing the need for compliance to ensure orderly and environmentally friendly elections.
Eco-Friendly Campaign Practices
In light of these challenges, EcoWaste Coalition has launched the "Kalikasan: Pangalagaan sa Halalan" (Care for Nature during Elections) advocacy. This initiative urges candidates to adopt eco-friendly, non-toxic, and sustainable campaign practices. By integrating environmental protection into their platforms and avoiding the use of materials that contribute to pollution and deforestation, candidates can set a positive example for their constituents.
Conclusion
As the election season intensifies, it is imperative for all stakeholders—candidates, supporters, and the general public—to collaborate in ensuring that campaign activities do not compromise environmental integrity or public safety. Adhering to established guidelines not only reflects a candidate's respect for the law but also their commitment to the community's well-being. Let us strive for an election that upholds democratic values while preserving the environment for future generations.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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