Comelec may require bets to use recycled campaign materials

MANILA, Philippines - The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is considering a plan to require candidates in the May 2016 polls to use recycled items for their campaign materials.

Based on a draft of rules and regulations prepared by the Comelec for the implementation of Republic Act 9006 or the Fair Elections Act, the poll body wishes to encourage candidates and parties “to use recyclable and environment-friendly materials” during the campaign.

The Comelec said those that contain hazardous chemicals and substances in the production of campaign and election propaganda should be avoided.

“Parties are required to indicate in their campaign materials the phrase: This material should be recycled. In local government units where local legislation governing the use of plastic and other similar materials exist, parties and candidates shall comply with the same,” the draft shows.

The Comelec is set to hold the public consultation on Jan. 11 at 2 p.m. at the main office in Palacio del Gobernador in Intramuros, Manila.

The law was designed to level the playing field among candidates during elections by providing a cap on campaign expenditures, among other provisions.