Senatorial bets violate COMELEC guidelines

MANILA, Philippines—The Commission on Elections (Comelec) disclosed Wednesday that at least five senatorial candidates consistently violate the rules regarding campaign posters.

Comelc Chairman George Garcia emphasized that these candidates routinely break the regulations in every region, ignoring restrictions on the size of posters, the locations for posting, and the use of eco-friendly materials. Garcia stressed that these violations are being closely watched but did not reveal the names.

Comelec intends to formally notify the candidates of the infractions and direct them to take down the unlawful campaign materials within three days of being notified.

Comelec will suggest that election violations and disqualification cases be filed against the violating candidates if they don't comply.

Garcia emphasized that the commission is dedicated to making sure that elections are fair and compliant with the law.

History reveals a concerning pattern despite these dire cautions: no candidate has ever been imprisoned for election offenses.

The efficacy of Comelec's rules is compromised by this ongoing lack of enforcement, which also erodes public confidence in the election process.

Opponents contend that these infractions will persist throughout each election season unless more stringent enforcement measures and severe sanctions are implemented.