THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) will launch its simultaneous “Oplan Baklas” to remove campaign materials placed in non-designated areas after the start of the campaign period for senatorial and party-list candidates on February 11, 2025.
Comelec-Central Visayas Director Francisco Pobe said the removal of these materials will take place on February 13-14, with the assistance of other government agencies, including the Prosecutor’s Office, police, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
He said the Comelec has designated specific areas where candidates are allowed to post their campaign materials.
He urged candidates and their supporters to ensure that posters are placed only in common poster areas or private properties with the owner’s consent.
Comelec has observed numerous campaign posters illegally placed on electric posts, government facilities, and national highways, which are not allowed.
Before the “Oplan Baklas” operation, the Comelec will send notices to candidates, giving them a chance to voluntarily remove their posters.
If candidates fail to comply, the Comelec and government agencies will proceed with the removal.
“Ang among simultaneous nga Operation Baklas, ang target namo will be on the 13th and 14th kay maghimo pa man og notice ang mga partido sa mga individuals nga kun mahimo, you voluntarily kanang detached or transfer your election propaganda materials didto sa common poster area because for all we know, dako baya nga kantidad ang ilang pagpaprinta baya ana nga tarpaulin, mga propaganda materials, so at least, tagaan sila og tsansa nga ibalhin nila because wala man sila gidid-an nga magpasta,” said Pobe.
(Our simultaneous ‘Oplan Baklas’ will be conducted on February 13 and 14. We will first issue notices to candidates, asking them to voluntarily remove or relocate their election propaganda to common poster areas. We understand that these materials, such as tarpaulins, cost money, so we are giving them a chance to transfer them instead of outright removal.)
He clarified that under Republic Act 9006, or the Fair Election Act, and Comelec resolutions, only posters of short or long bond paper size and tarpaulins measuring up to 2×3 feet are allowed in common poster areas. Larger posters should only be placed at campaign headquarters or candidates’ residences.
Meanwhile, the Cebu City Police will be on standby to provide security during “Oplan Baklas.”
Police Lieutenant Colonel Janette Macatangay said their role is to ensure the safety of those involved in removing illegal campaign materials. (AYB)
