LUNA, Apayao – To promote environmentally conscious elections, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) Apayao is cracking down on campaign materials illegally posted on trees and other prohibited areas.
Provincial Election Supervisor (PES) Atty. Mae Richelle Chaudhary announced the said initiative during the first coordination meeting of election stakeholders on January 14, 2025 at the Clubhouse, Apayao Eco Tourism and Sports Complex (AETSC).
Utilizing the ‘Oplan Baklas’ program, the Comelec tapped the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to assist in removing campaign paraphernalia nailed or tacked on trees along major thoroughfares in the province. PES Chaudhary emphasized the use of common poster areas in order to protect the environment during the election season.
“We ask the DENR to remove election campaign materials posted in public places outside of common poster areas; and the DPWH to provide necessary facilities and equipment for this activity,” she said.
Chaudhary likewise directed election stakeholders to monitor compliance and submit reports on violations to the Office of the Regional Election Supervisor.
The 150-day election period for the May 12, 2025 national and local elections (NLE) officially kicked off on Sunday, January 12, 2025. This gives Comelec the full authority over election-related matters. A nationwide gun ban is also now in effect which requires individuals to secure written authorization from the Comelec to carry or transport firearms and other deadly weapons.
The Philippine National Police has set up checkpoints in the province to enforce the gun ban, monitor compliance, and maintain public safety.
Latest data from Comelec showed there are more than 68 million voters for the 2025 NLE. By Jess Christley Marquez