With the local campaign period set to begin on March 28, 2025, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has reminded candidates to take down campaign materials placed in prohibited areas across the city.
According to Dagupan City Election Officer, Atty. Michael Franks Sarmiento, candidates must comply with the Fair Election Act, which requires them to remove unauthorized posters at least three days before the official campaign period.
“Based sa Fair Election Act, dapat 3 days before ng campaign period naalis na nila ‘yan, nabaklas na nila mga posters nila. Isa ‘yan sa duties nila,” Sarmiento said.
COMELEC also reiterated the rules on campaign materials, where posters must not exceed 2 feet by 3 feet and should only be displayed in designated common poster areas such as barangay halls and Dagupan City Plaza.
Some voters supported the strict enforcement of campaign poster rules.
“Alisin na dapat nila kasi hindi rin maganda,” Beneil Dela Cruz, a voter, said.
“Since public servant sila, dapat sila ang role model,” Crestel Castillo, another voter, added.
Campaign materials should not be posted on the following:
- Trees
- Light posts and electrical wires
- Schools and waiting sheds
- Sidewalks and traffic signs
- Bridges and public shrines
- Public transport terminals, airports, and seaports
- Government vehicles, including patrol cars and ambulances
- Trains, stations, overpasses, and underpasses
- Center islands and public announcement boards
Candidates who violate these regulations could face electoral offenses, according to COMELEC.
