The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Commission on Elections (Comelec) removed unlawful campaign materials in a large operation dubbed “Grand Oplan Baklas,” marking the start of the local campaign period for the upcoming midterm elections.
Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia and MMDA Chairman Romando Artes led the initiative, which aims to clear public spaces of unauthorized campaign paraphernalia that often clutter streets, walls, and other public areas.
The operation in Tondo, Manila complies with Republic Act No. 3571 and Comelec Resolution No. 11111, which prohibit the posting or installation of campaign materials on trees and electrical posts.
Garcia announced that the Comelec would send letters to candidates notifying them of “orders to remove” so they can initiate the removal of posters from prohibited areas. If the campaign posters are not removed within three days, the commission will issue a show-cause order.
“We advise all candidates to place campaign materials only in designated common areas to avoid removal and potential disqualification cases,” Garcia emphasized.
Artes said the MMDA deployed personnel from the Metro Parkways Clearing Group (MPCG) to work alongside Comelec in dismantling illegal campaign materials that violate established size and placement regulations.
“We deployed over 500 MMDA personnel across the 17 local government units of Metro Manila to remove these illegal campaign materials,” Artes stated.
“Furthermore, in coordination with Comelec, the MMDA will intensify its Oplan Baklas operations to ensure compliance with election rules.”
Additionally, MPCG personnel conducted cleaning operations to maintain the area.
Most of the removed items were tarpaulins, posters, and other election paraphernalia hanging from tall poles, trees, electric posts, bridges, pedestrian footbridges, electric wires, and other non-designated areas.
Garcia is also encouraging the public to report any illicit political postings to a nearby Comelec office, official website, or on its social media platforms.
The local campaign period for the 2025 elections begins Friday, March 28, and will last until May 10. The midterm elections are scheduled for May 12, 2025.