Do you have the right Campaign Paraphernalia?
In terms of location: Campaign materials are only considered lawful when posted on designated areas for election posters, otherwise it will be seen as illegal campaign propaganda.
The placement of political advertisements in plazas, markets, barangay centers, and other strategic settings where it can be readily seen are only allowed when the concerned Election Officer identifies these locations as the designated common poster areas of a certain city or municipality.
It is also prohibited to post any campaign paraphernalia on trees pursuant to the Section 18 of COMELEC Resolution No. 10294.
In terms of size: It is strictly imposed that all campaign posters or tarpaulins should not exceed the size requirement of 2x3 feet, regardless of the way it is formed or assembled to make it seem like the material adheres to the size limitation.
In view of this rule, it is prohibited to design collage-like posters bearing multiple campaign materials with a size of 2x3 feet or less and collapsed into one advertisement that exceeds the size limit.
Candidates should also refrain from cheating the size requirement by producing campaign posters with single letters of names or images of candidates that form a seemingly standalone material exceeding the 2x3 feet maximum size.
In terms of the content or message: It is not allowed to produce election campaign posters or any political propaganda materials that violate the Republic Act No. 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women, particularly those relating to gender sensitivity principles.
Pursuant to Republic No. 9006 or the Fair Elections Act, it is also unlawful for the BSKE hopefuls not to include the name of the payor or the candidate who will benefit from the campaign material using the words “Political advertisement paid for/by” or “Printed free of charge.”
In terms of the medium: While we commonly see the conduct of face-to-face campaigns, it is not news for some candidates to make use of the influential power of social media to further their cause.
While it is beneficial for candidates with a solid social media presence and following, it is important to remember that the conduct of live streaming and other online audience-building activities will be considered as a form of e-rally.
Meanwhile, the political campaigns that will utilize mainstream media channels are all subject to certain limitations including the authorized election expenses of candidates, truth in advertising, and other regulations as may deemed relevant by the COMELEC.
The said mainstream media comprises cable television, radio, newspaper, and internet.
What happens when a candidate violates the campaign guidelines?
The COMELEC is prepared and equipped to mobilize the Task Force Anti-Epal to sanction the candidates who will violate the posting guidelines.
The designated Election Officer will primarily issue a Notice to Remove and Show Cause Order to the party who will be proven guilty of posting unlawful campaign materials in both public spaces and private domains.
The Operation Baklas is also set to lead the removal of campaign materials that do not adhere with the rule on the appropriate size and designated location of the political advertisement.
What does it take for voters to consider a candidate as their choice?
It is simple as sincerity, authenticity, and yes— it does not need to involve anything of monetary value.
While many candidates prefer to leave a mark by giving souvenirs like T-shirts, ballers, bags, sun visors, hats, umbrellas, handkerchiefs, ballpens, and fans–this gesture is simply not allowed during and after the campaign period.
As a matter of fact, only five (5) of the candidates’ campaign staff are allowed to wear a T-shirt bearing their election bet’s name and picture in the course of the campaign period.
