DUMAGUETE CITY, Negros Oriental, Feb. 23 (PIA) -- The Commission on Elections (Comelec) here reminded voters and political candidates on the election campaign rules to ensure the orderly and peaceful elections in the province.

The campaign period for candidates vying for local posts starts on March 25.

In a Kapihan sa PIA forum, Election Officer Jason Orbeta of Comelec said under the Fair Elections Act, political candidates and parties need to keep in mind that campaign posters must be placed in a designated common poster areas, otherwise these will be taken down.

However, this will only be allowed when the campaign period starts.

The national candidates campaign period started on Feb 8.

Orbeta said campaign materials posted in government-owned vehicles, electric posts, trees, public schools, government offices or public buildings, transport terminals, and other public places are prohibited.

The "Oplan Baklas" campaign, which aims to remove campaign posters not following the guidelines, is composed of Comelec, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and Department of Public Works and Highways, Orbeta said.

Campaigning is also prohibited on Maundy Thursday (April 14), Good Friday (April 15), the eve of election day (May 8) and on Election Day (May 9).

Physical sorties are allowed provided that safety protocols such as wearing of face masks and face shields, one-meter social distancing, frequent disinfection of hands; and proper cough and sneezing etiquettes are followed to keep the public safe.

For campaigns on social media, the Comelec said only verified accounts, websites, blogs, and/or social media pages may run electoral ads and boost or promote electoral posts. (JCT/PIA7 Negros Oriental with reports from Jakarta Requiron, NORSU Intern)