The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has directed local government units (LGUs) to assist the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in its crackdown against campaign materials that violate election laws.
DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. issued the directive ahead of the start of the election period for the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) on Aug. 28.
In DILG Memorandum Circular 2023-105, Abalos said the DILG, LGUs, and other government agencies were deputized by the Comelec through its Resolution No. 10924 to assist the poll body in removing and tearing down unlawful election campaign materials.
Abalos also enjoined LGUs to provide the poll body with the necessary equipment for the removal of unlawful election materials; designate LGU personnel who will assist the Comelec in the campaign; issue executive orders for the designation of LGU personnel/barangay tanod (village watchmen) and provide them with the necessary assistance to perform their role; and direct the designated personnel to coordinate with the Election Officer before tearing down unlawful election materials.
Section 240 of Comelec Resolution No. 10924 prohibits the printing, publishing, posting, and distribution of any form of campaign materials that do not bear the name of the payor or candidate who will benefit from the election propaganda printed or aired.
Posting, displaying, or exhibiting any election material outside of authorized common poster areas, in public places, or private properties without the consent of the owner thereof is likewise prohibited.
The election period for the Oct. 30 village and youth polls will run until Nov. 29 while the campaign period is set from Oct. 19 to 28.