Pols’ propaganda materials can’t be removed yet – Comelec

MANILA, Philippines — Posters and other propaganda materials of some politicians cannot be ordered removed yet by the Commission on Elections.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia said the poll body at this time does not have jurisdiction over posters and propaganda materials that are now proliferating in various parts of the country.

“We don’t have jurisdiction for now, but come filing of COCs (certificates of candidacy), we will remove all those in public places,” Garcia added.

The Comelec chief noted that those who will have filed their COCs are already considered candidates and thus prohibited from putting up posters until the start of the campaign period.

Several posters of politicians reminding people to drive carefully were seen on national roads and highways during the Holy Week break.

Similar posters and propaganda can be considered illegal and premature campaigning once political aspirants file their COCs, according to Garcia.

He affirmed that the Comelec is determined to implement the premature campaigning ban in the coming midterm elections.

“After they have filed their COCs, we will remove all posters in public places. By that time, they are already considered candidates,” he said.

“Our resolve is at an all-time high. Test not our determination on this,” he added.

The Comelec successfully implemented the premature campaigning ban during the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections last year, according to Garcia.