THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) expressed its disappointment Tuesday over the failure of some candidates to remove their campaign materials despite the five-day deadline expiring after the May 12 elections.
Comelec Chair George Garcia voiced his frustration during an inspection of campaign material disposal at the Payatas Controlled Disposal Facility in Quezon City. He emphasized that the deadline for removal was clearly communicated.
“We said that five days after the election, they (campaign materials) should be removed. Now it’s been more than five days,” Garcia stated. He underscored the legal ramifications for non-compliance, warning that candidates who failed to remove their materials would face consequences.
“The Task Force Baklas should report to us who didn’t remove their campaign materials. Even if they can’t be disqualified, we can file a criminal case against them. That’s a criminal case,” he warned.
Garcia further stressed that the violations could impact future candidacies.
“Those that committed violations can still be held accountable when they file their certificates of candidacy again in the future elections,” he asserted. The Comelec’s firm stance highlights its commitment to enforcing election laws and maintaining a clean and orderly electoral process.
The legal basis for the removal requirement is Comelec Resolution No. 11086, which mandates that all election propaganda must be removed within five days following the election.
The Comelec’s action serves as a reminder to candidates of their responsibilities and the potential penalties for non-compliance with election regulations. The Commission is expected to take further action against those who have failed to meet the deadline.
