MMDA, Comelec begin war on campaign posters

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will be sending its personnel and equipment to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) office in Intramuros, Manila City today so they can coordinate with poll officials and start removing posters and other illegal campaign materials of candidates in the metropolis.

MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando yesterday said he would be sending at least 30 men and a number of aerial basket motor vehicles, which have ladders that will enable them to reach and remove posters and streamers in high places.

"I received a letter from the Comelec last Jan. 29. They are asking us to lend them equipment and people to assist them in removing the campaign paraphernalia," Fernando said.

Representatives from the poll body will accompany MMDA enforcers, who will make their rounds and decide which material should be removed and which to be retained.

Fernando admitted that although he is a part of the Arroyo administration, their agency should comply with the Comelec’s orders.

"We will not spare even the posters of the President if the Comelec says they are illegal and should be removed."

As for campaign materials which have been painted on walls, MMDA Undersecretary Cesar Lacuna said they would appeal to the candidates to cover them with a fresh coat of paint.

Putting up campaign materials this early is a violation of the poll body’s regulations. The Comelec is set to designate common poster areas, where candidates can put up their campaign materials.

Under Comelec’s regulations, campaign materials can be allowed starting Feb. 10, and March 25 for those vying for national and local positions, respectively. – Evelyn Macairan