Election campaign tarpaulins have flooded public spaces in Mangaldan, Pangasinan, with some placed illegally on trees and electric posts.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) reminded political aspirants that hanging election materials on trees is strictly prohibited under Presidential Decree 953, which protects trees from damage and unauthorized use.

To avoid immediate removal, DENR has given candidates a chance to relocate their materials to designated areas before authorities conduct an “Oplan Baklas” operation with COMELEC and other agencies.

“Give them stern warning, tanggalin. And then, we make the necessary warning. Ngayon, ‘pag inulit nila, wala na po tayong magagawa kung hindi to exercise our obligation na mag-file po ng kaso,” For. Raymond Rivera, Pangasinan Provincial Environment and Natural Resources (PENR) Officer, said.

Election posters have also been placed on electric poles, which electric cooperatives oppose strongly due to safety risks.

“Bawal po. Lalo na kung may emergency na need i-fix sa linya. Sagabal itong mga tarpaulin. Lalo na ‘yung iba, may frame na kawayan,” Engr. Rodrigo Corpuz, General Manager of CENPELCO, said.

Some residents believe that candidates should set an example by following campaign rules.

“Dapat isipin nilang mabuti kung saan nila ilalagay yung poster nila,” Alex Aquino, a voter, said.

Authorities urge political candidates to respect environmental laws and public safety regulations, reminding them that leaders should uphold the rules, not break them.