PENALTIES: FINES, IMPRISONMENT, DISQUALIFICATION

THE Commission on Elections (COMELEC) issued a stern reminder to all candidates for the May 12 poll to remove prohibited campaign materials, acknowledging widespread violations across the province as in the rest of the country.

It warned candidates that violators of campaign material regulations could face fines, imprisonment of one to six years, and perpetual disqualification from holding any public office, although the poll body has little to show in terms of such cases in past elections.

COMELEC officials expressed concern over the proliferation of campaign materials mounted or displayed in unauthorized areas, including public spaces and locations outside of designated common poster areas.

According to COMELEC Resolution No. 11086, all prohibited election propaganda “must be removed by the candidates within 72 hours before the start of the campaign period.”

The official campaign period for local aspirants will start on March 28, while for national positions, senators and party-lists, began February 11. The campaign period will conclude on May 10, excluding April 17 (Maundy Thursday) and April 18 (Good Friday).

Pangasinan Provincial Election Supervisor Ericson Oganiza emphasized that campaign posters, banners, and other election-related materials must comply with election laws, including the Omnibus Election Code and Republic Act No. 9006, also known as the Fair Election Act.

Permitted campaign materials during the campaign period include pamphlets, leaflets, and stickers (max 8.5” x 14”); posters (max 2 ft x 3 ft); and streamers (max 3 ft x 8 ft) that can be displayed during rallies within the allowed timeframe.

Mobile ads on vehicles, paid media ads, private billboards, and transit ads are also permitted, subject to size restrictions and regulatory guidelines.

Dagupan City Election Officer Michael Franks Sarmiento, meanwhile, clarified that lawful election-related materials may be posted on private property with the owner’s consent.

He added that aspirants for local positions have been briefed by the election body on the importance of complying with regulations to prevent election offenses. (Ahikam Pasion)

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