The Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Tarlac has issued a reminder to political candidates and their supporters to adopt eco-friendly and sustainable materials for their campaign efforts.
Provincial Election Supervisor Fernando Cot-om emphasized the importance of using recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard, cloth, and other sustainable options to minimize environmental impact. “We encourage candidates and their supporters to follow this directive to preserve our natural resources,” Cot-om said.
He clarified that the use of single-use plastics, styrofoam, non-biodegradable materials, and materials containing hazardous substances is prohibited.
Cot-om also provided guidelines on campaign material sizes, stating that billboards, posters, and standees must not exceed 2’x3’. Pamphlets, leaflets, and stickers must comply with the standard 8 ½ inches by 14 inches size limit. Additionally, streamers larger than 3’x8’ will be considered illegal election paraphernalia.
“Candidates can display streamers not exceeding 3’x8’ at their headquarters until the end of the campaign period. They may also place them at the venue of public meetings or rallies, but must ensure they are removed afterward,” Cot-om added.
The official campaign period for local candidates will run from March 28 to May 10, with the exception of Maundy Thursday (April 17) and Good Friday (April 18).
Cot-om further advised candidates and supporters to use designated common poster areas, such as plazas, public markets, barangay centers, parks, and basketball courts, for their election materials. Hanging or pinning campaign materials on streets, bridges, public schools, trees, electric posts, traffic signages, public vehicles, waiting sheds, sidewalks, or flowering plants along public roads is strictly prohibited.
“Posters can be placed on private properties only with written consent from the property owner,” Cot-om noted.
Finally, he urged candidates to avoid using offensive or discriminatory content in their campaign materials. Violations of these guidelines could lead to election offenses, punishable under the Omnibus Election Code. (PIA Region 3-Tarlac)
