Comelec warns public against election propaganda violations

By Jason B. Neola

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued a stern warning to individuals involved in the removal, destruction, or defacement of lawful election propaganda, calling such acts a clear violation of the Omnibus Election Code.

Atty. Maico Julia Jr., election officer of Comelec-Naga, emphasized that only the Comelec or its authorized representatives are allowed to take down campaign materials. He said any other person who removes, destroys, or defaces such materials—especially those posted in common poster areas or in private properties with the owner’s consent—may face criminal liability.

Julia reminded the public that these actions are considered election offenses under Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code. Penalties, as stated in Section 264 of the same law, include imprisonment of not less than one year but not more than six years without probation, disqualification from holding public office, and deprivation of the right to vote.

“If the violator is a political party or a party-list group, it may also be held liable and fined accordingly,” Julia added.

Julia preferred not to disclose the exact amount of the fine, stating that it may have already been revised and that he did not want to cause confusion among the public. He, however, noted that based on the Omnibus Election Code, the fine is set at ₱10,000.

The warning comes amid reports from various quarters about incidents of election materials being torn down or vandalized ahead of the 2025 polls. Comelec urged everyone to respect the rules and allow candidates to campaign freely and fairly within the bounds of the law.

Under Section 264 of the Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines, a political party or party-list found guilty of an election offense—such as the unlawful removal, destruction, or defacement of lawful election propaganda—shall be fined.

The penalty is imposed after a criminal action has been instituted and the corresponding officials of the party have been found guilty.