Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Saturday urged candidates and their supporters to take the lead in removing illegally mounted campaign materials and not wait for orders to do so.
According to Philippines News Agency, Comelec Chairperson George Garcia stated in a radio interview that candidates participating in the May 12 polls could face charges and even disqualification if they violate the rules on common poster areas. Garcia emphasized the importance of immediate action, saying, "The candidates are required to remove them immediately even if they have not received the letter yet or if they receive the letter, they must be removed immediately. It is very difficult to have a case with the Comelec. We are not joking with this warning. We have to start filing cases."
The 45-day campaign period for local candidates kicked off on Friday, just a day after Comelec managed to clear truckloads of illegal campaign materials from various parts of the country. Garcia noted that the first day of the campaign proceeded smoothly despite the removal of significant amounts of materials.
He also called on local government units (LGUs) to pass ordinances that would penalize those who violate campaign poster guidelines. Garcia stated, "As for the Comelec, we are limited to what is stated in the law. Maybe in the future, our LGUs will be able to have an ordinance, whether there is an election or not, that will increase the penalties, if not increase the fines that they can impose."
In Manila, reelectionists Mayor Honey Lacuna and Vice Mayor Yul Servo held their proclamation rally in front of Our Lady of Loreto Church in Sampaloc District. They engaged in house-to-house campaigns, accompanied by 4th District Edward Maceda, whose wife, Dr. Giselle Maceda, is running to replace him. During her rally speech, Lacuna highlighted her achievements, asserting, "We have accomplished so much and we will not allow anyone to belittle or insult us. Even though it is not perfect, our Manila is not a failure. Our Manila is full of promise and hope."
