Regulate use and disposal of election campaign materials

On the morning of Oct. 30, as I walked through the streets in Marikina City to observe the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections, I couldn’t help but notice the incredibly clean streets free of any campaign materials like tarpaulins, slips of paper, pesky campaign flyers, and leaflets. It was such a refreshing sight. Before that, every nook and cranny of the city was adorned with those flashy and vibrant tarps, each bearing the face of a hopeful candidate.

There is no denying the excessive use of these materials can clutter the streets, creating an unattractive and chaotic environment. By advocating for clean and orderly streets, we can ensure a visually appealing and serene atmosphere that allows citizens to focus more on discharging their civic duty to vote.Firstly, campaign materials cover street poles, lampposts, and walls, creating visual pollution and diminishing surroundings. Clean streets promote a positive image and civic pride, so prompt removal after elections is essential.

Secondly, maintaining streets free of campaign materials promotes order and cleanliness in society. Posters and banners create clutter, disorganization, and safety hazards. Encouraging candidates to use online platforms, public speeches, and debates fosters healthy democratic processes while maintaining cleanliness.

Lastly, having clean, orderly streets free of campaign materials allows citizens to focus on the issues at hand. Excessive signage can distract and overwhelm individuals, making it difficult to pay attention to the substance of the campaigns. By minimizing the visual presence of campaign materials, individuals can assess candidates based on their ideas, policies, and actions, rather than being swayed by a barrage of advertising. This enables a more informed voter base and encourages candidates to engage in substantive discussions and debates, thereby promoting a more thoughtful and democratic society.

I hope the Commission on Elections and the Department of the Interior and Local Government can jointly implement stringent regulations for the improper disposal of campaign materials during elections, and, in collaboration with the local government units, political parties, and candidates, increase public awareness through education and campaigns about responsible waste management and encourage them to strictly follow such policy.

REGINALD B. TAMAYO, Marikina City