by: Gelaine Gutierrez

Quezon City (PIA) – Five days into the 90-day campaign period for national posts in the May 12 midterm polls, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-National Capital Region (DENR-NCR) reminded the public to spare the trees from campaign materials, emphasizing that placing these political ads outside designated areas is illegal.

Citing instances of violations in posting political campaign ads, DENR-NCR reminded bets’ supporters of Section 18 of Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Resolution No. 10294 (2018).

It stipulates that campaign materials must only be posted in designated “common poster areas.” Under this rule, violators could face penalties, including imprisonment for six months to two years or fines ranging from P500 to P5,000.

Likewise, the DENR-NCR reminded the candidates that posting and nailing campaign materials on trees is strictly prohibited.

Section 18, paragraphs (a) and (b) of COMELEC Resolution No. 10294 (2018) stipulates that campaign materials are only permitted in designated “common poster areas”. They must not be posted on trees or other unauthorized sites, the agency added.

Similarly, Section 2 of Presidential Decree No. 953 strictly prohibits the cutting, destroying, or harming trees and plants in public areas. Violators could face six months to two years in prison, a fine of P500 to P5,000, or both.

DENR-NCR Regional Executive Director Atty. Michael Drake P. Matias reminds the public that the rule is in effect year-round, not just during elections. 

“Hindi lamang sa panahon ng halalan ipinagbabawal ang pagkakabit ng anumang materyal sa mga puno kundi sa lahat ng pagkakataon. Ang mga puno at halaman ay mahalaga sa ating kalikasan at kalusugan, kaya’t kailangan natin silang pangalagaan.” (The prohibition against posting any material to trees applies not only during the election period but at all times. Trees and plants are essential to our environment and health, so we need to take care of them.)

Trees are important in protecting the environment, producing oxygen, and reducing air pollution. Damaging them for short-term promotions can have long-term severe consequences for the environment.

Thus, DENR-NCR strongly encourages candidates and supporters to use environmentally friendly campaign materials. Instead of plastic tarpaulins or non-biodegradable posters, they can use recyclable, reusable, or biodegradable materials.

Report violations

In line with the law, the DENR-NCR encourages everyone to report campaign and promotional materials posted on trees. You can reach out through their Metropolitan Environmental Offices (MEO):  

MEO-West (Manila, Mandaluyong, Makati, Pasay, San Juan)

Email: meowest2022@gmail.com | meowest@denr.gov.ph  

Telephone: (02) 7000-2706  

MEO-South (Las Piñas, Parañaque, Muntinlupa, Taguig, Pateros)

Email: meosouth@denr.gov.ph  

Telephone: (02) 8252-8292  

MEO-North (Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela) 

Email: meonorth@denr.gov.ph  

Telephone: (02) 8251-1863  

MEO-East (Pasig, Marikina, Quezon City) 

Email: denrncreastfieldoffice2021@gmail.com  

Telephone: 0939-920-5727 (local 4202)  (GLDG/PIA-NCR)