12 hours ago
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CEBU — The Commission on Elections – Central Visayas (Comelec-7) has intensified its crackdown on illegal campaigning, issuing show cause orders to 268 national candidates and partylist groups for placing campaign materials in unauthorized areas.
Comelec-7 Director Francisco Pobe said the commission has already removed 28,000 illegal posters from Feb. 11 to March 15 under "Operation Baklas," a campaign targeting materials displayed in non-designated public spaces.
"These candidates must explain why they should not be charged for violating election laws," Pobe said.
He also stressed the importance of compliance, urging candidates to serve as responsible leaders.
"After all, you candidates are already known in the community, so all you need to do is present yourselves as worthy of serving," said Pobe.
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The regional electoral body expects a surge in violations as the local campaign period begins on March 28.
Candidates who received show cause orders have 72 hours to respond.
Those found guilty of violating campaign regulations face legal consequences, including fines of at least P10,000 for political parties and imprisonment of one to six years for individuals, along with disqualification from voting and holding public office.
In an earlier interview, Pobe clarified that social media influencers campaigning for candidates must register themselves with the Comelec.
He said that the accreditation is centralized, requiring influencers to go through Comelec's main office in Manila.
