The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has instructed local officials in the Negros Island Region to remove or cover their names and photos on government vehicles during the election campaign period.
According to a Philippine News Agency report, this move aims to prevent the misuse of government resources during the May 12 elections.
Comelec-NIR Assistant Regional Director Jossil Macute clarified that this request applies only for the campaign period, which starts on March 28 and ends on May 10.
He recommended that local officials with their images on ambulances, dump trucks, and other government-owned vehicles temporarily cover or remove them to avoid allegations of using government resources for political gain.
“Of course, there will be exceptions, such as with ambulances when they are needed during emergencies and there is no time to do this,” Macute added, acknowledging the need for some vehicles to remain operational without delay.
Macute mentioned that he would be writing to the provincial election supervisors in Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, and Siquijor before March 28 to ensure local government units cooperate with the directive. The goal is to maintain fairness and transparency during the election season.
Along with this, Comelec will launch a nationwide Operation “Baklas,” which involves the removal of campaign materials in areas not designated for such purposes. Local government officials who do not comply will face sanctions, with reports submitted to the Comelec’s central office for further action.
Additionally, government workers have been reminded to refrain from openly supporting candidates, particularly during office hours. While they can like and share social media posts, they are prohibited from posting endorsements with calls for votes, as this would violate rules on partisan politics.
