Despite backlash, Comelec says takedown of tarps and posters on private property allowed

In this Feb. 16, 2022 photo, the Commission on Elections led the regionwide Operation Baklas in the National Capital Region (NCR) to tear down and remove unlawful election materials.

Comelec / Released

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections, while open to recalibrating their now controversial policy of removing campaign tarpaulins and posters even on private property, is so far standing by its takedowns of materials it deems to be oversized, arguing that free speech is not absolute.

Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez told CNN Philippines’ “The Source” on Friday that posters expressing support for candidates are considered election materials and are subject to regulation.

“Freedom of speech accepts regulation in the proper instances. As mentioned in the Supreme Court, there’s a species of speech that becomes election propaganda and is therefore the valid constitutional subject of regulation,” Jimenez said.

Full Story: https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2022/02/18/2161705/despite-backlash-comelec-says-takedown-tarps-and-posters-private-property-allowed