By Gail Momblan/PNA
ILOILO CITY — More than 1,000 campaign posters that did not conform with the size and locations imposed by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) were taken down during ‘Oplan Baklas’ here.
The number was recorded by the Comelec, together with Task Force Anti-Squatting and Illegal Structures (ASIS) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), since the ‘Oplan Baklas’ operations kicked off on February 12, Comelec-Iloilo City Election Assistant Jonathan Sayno said in a phone interview on Monday.
Sayno said about 100 posters were removed in every operation around city.
He noted that the posters taken down were itemized and consolidated in their office.
‘Oplan Baklas’ on Monday cleared Plaza Libertad, JM Basa St., Iznart St., Muelle Loney St., General Luna St., Diversion Road, and Mandurriao district of out-of-place and oversized posters.
“As the election day draws near, illegal campaign posters are increasing,” Sayno observed.
He vowed to strictly monitor and target persons who commit these violations.
“We will go around the city unannounced in order to catch the violators. They can be apprehended and cases can be filed against them,” he warned.
Sayno further said the Comelec will meet with the representatives of the local candidates to orient them on the campaign rules.
The campaign period for local candidates will officially start on March 29, he said.
After the orientation, the Comelec expects local officials to abide by the campaign rules, especially with the designated poster areas.
Jose Nick Mendros, Comelec-6 regional director, on Saturday emphasized that political aspirants should first follow ‘simple rules’, such as abiding designated poster areas before they become leaders.
