EcoWaste Coalition Urges Party-List Groups to Remove Campaign Materials from Trees

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Environmental Advocates Stress Legal and Ecological Consequences

The environmental watchdog group, EcoWaste Coalition, has raised concerns over the use of trees for posting campaign materials by certain party-list groups participating in the upcoming midterm elections on May 12. This appeal follows their recent criticism of senatorial candidates for placing campaign tarpaulins in unauthorized locations.

During their monitoring on March 2, EcoWaste Coalition observed campaign tarpaulins from at least five party-list groups affixed to trees along sections of Onyx Street (from Pedro Gil Street to Augusto Francisco Street) and Aurora Boulevard (Barangay 375, Zone 38) in Manila.

Jove Benosa, Programs and Projects Manager at EcoWaste Coalition, expressed disappointment, stating, "We are saddened to see the trees harmed in the name of election propaganda." He emphasized that these streets are among the few in Manila with mature trees lining the center islands and sidewalks.

Legal Framework Against Tree Posting

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Resolution No. 11111 explicitly prohibits the posting of campaign materials on planted or growing trees, flowering plants, shrubs, or plants of scenic value along public roads, plazas, parks, school premises, or any other public grounds. Violations of this resolution can lead to prosecution under Republic Act No. 3571, which protects trees and plants from destruction or injury. Penalties under this act include imprisonment ranging from six months to two years, fines between P500 to P5,000, or both. 

Environmental Significance of Trees

Trees play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. They support wildlife, provide essential resources for humans, purify the air, stabilize soil, conserve water, prevent flooding, mitigate the effects of typhoons, offer shade, enhance the beauty of surroundings, and absorb greenhouse gases, which is vital amid the global climate emergency. Damaging trees by nailing or tacking campaign materials can harm their bark, making them susceptible to insects and diseases, potentially leading to stunted growth or premature death. 

Calls for Compliance and Environmental Responsibility

EcoWaste Coalition, along with other environmental groups, urges all candidates and their supporters to refrain from using trees as platforms for campaign materials. They advocate for the use of recyclable, reusable, or biodegradable materials for campaign purposes to minimize environmental impact. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has also called on the public to report any campaign materials posted on trees, emphasizing that such actions are illegal and harmful to the environment. 

In previous elections, the DENR has taken action by removing thousands of illegally posted campaign materials from trees nationwide. For instance, during the 2022 elections, over 114,000 such materials were dismantled to protect the country's green infrastructure. 

As the May 12 elections approach, EcoWaste Coalition and allied organizations continue to advocate for environmentally responsible campaigning, emphasizing that the protection of trees and adherence to environmental laws reflect the integrity and responsibility of those seeking public office.

About "WazzupPilipinas.com"

WazzupPilipinas.com is the fastest growing and most awarded blog and social media community that has transcended beyond online media. It has successfully collaborated with all forms of media namely print, radio and television making it the most diverse multimedia organization. The numerous collaborations with hundreds of brands and organizations as online media partner and brand ambassador makes WazzupPilipinas.com a truly successful advocate of everything about the Philippines, and even more since its support extends further to even international organizations including startups and SMEs that have made our country their second home.