ILIGAN CITY (PIA)--The Commission on Elections (Comelec) here reminded the public that it also plays a vital role in the orderly and fair conduct of elections.

During the kick-off of Operation Baklas, election officer Lawyer Joel Dexter Nagtalon emphasized that ensuring an orderly and fair election is likewise a responsibility of the community and not just by the poll body and law enforcement agencies.

"Mas mabuti na mayroong cooperation from citizens para mainform din yung opisina namin na may ganyang nangyayari [it is better to have cooperation from citizens to inform our office that something like this is happening] so that we can act on it accordingly," he said.

The election officer also called on political candidates to follow campaign rules especially on the use of posters to avoid prosecution of violations.

Together with the Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Information Agency, Philippine National Police, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Comelec started on Friday, February 11, the "Operation Baklas" removing campaign posters placed on prohibited areas and those that do not comply with the prescribed size requirements.

The campaign period for national elective offices began on February 8 while that for local elective offices will commence on March 25. The stretch, which will end on May 7, however, will have breaks on April 14 (Maundy Thursday) and April 15 (Good Friday). (APB/PIA Iligan City)