PB asks candidates to immediately remove campaign materials

CEBU, Philippines - The Provincial Board is calling on candidates in the May 9 national and local elections to immediately remove their campaign posters and materials. The request was made through a resolution passed by the legislative body during its regular session last week.

"The May 9 national and local elections has recently concluded, and campaign materials are still seen in different places including those that are outside the designated common poster areas," read part of the resolution authored by Board Member Miguel Antonio Magpale.

Common poster areas are selected public places such as plazas and markets, where posters may be easily seen or read, and with the heaviest pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

The body said an initiative should be done as a way of protecting the environment "as well as countering the harmful effects that these election wastes may carry."

Taking into account the onset of the rainy season, the PB added that the removal and disposal should be done immediately to avoid clogging of canals and drainages since most of the election wastes are plastics.

The PB further reminded candidates to adhere to the provisions of the existing laws on the disposal of the materials especially on proper segregation.

"This body hereby strongly urge our local candidates to take responsibility and accountability in removing election waste, and properly dispose them in accordance with the (Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000)," it said.

In Cebu City, the Department of Public Services earlier launched its "Operation Kuskus" to remove streamers and posters after Election Day.  Over 142 tons of garbage were collected by DPS in Cebu City during Election Day, mostly sample ballots, Styrofoam from packed meals and water bottles.

There is no existing law that sets a period for candidates to take down their campaign materials after Election Day. — (FREEMAN)