114,664 campaign posters on trees removed

MANILA, Philippines — Up to 114,664 pieces of campaign materials posted on trees across the country have been removed, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

DENR acting Secretary Jim Sampulna reminded candidates and their supporters that posting of campaign materials on trees is prohibited under environmental laws and the guidelines set by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

“The candidates themselves should promote an environmentally conscious election campaign,” Sampulna said.

The DENR said the dismantled campaign materials weighed 2,050 kilos.

The DENR field offices in Zamboanga peninsula, Central Luzon and Bicol reported the highest number of confiscated campaign materials with 21,650, 19,646 and 18,950 pieces, respectively.

Sampulna said campaign materials should be posted only in areas designated by the Comelec.

The DENR noted that Republic Act 3571 prohibits the “cutting, destroying or injuring” of planted or growing trees, flowering plants and shrubs or plants of scenic value along public roads, in plazas, parks, school premises or any other public ground.

It also cited a provision in Presidential Decree 953, which penalizes violators with imprisonment of six months to two years or a fine of P500 to P5,000 or both.

PD 953 allows the cutting of trees only “for public safety” and upon the approval of the duly authorized representative of the agency or political subdivision with jurisdiction over them.

Sampulna said a joint memorandum circular by the DENR, Comelec and Department of the Interior and Local Government enjoined political parties, including party-list groups and individual candidates, to enforce relevant provisions of the Fair Elections Act and Ecological Solid Waste Management Act.

The DENR said the confiscated campaign materials, mostly tarpaulins, would be donated to environment organizations such as the EcoWaste Coalition, which recycle materials into useful items like bags and school supplies.