Comelec sets 2025 poll campaign rules

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued the rules and regulations governing campaign activities for the 2025 midterm elections.

In a 32-page resolution released yesterday, the Comelec said poll candidates and their supporters are encouraged to use environment-friendly and recyclable materials for their campaign paraphernalia.

The poll body said the use of materials containing hazardous chemicals and substances must be avoided.

Candidates and political parties are required to indicate in their campaign materials the phrase, “This material should be recycled or disposed of responsibly.”

The Comelec said all candidates must comply with policies of local government units that intend to  protect the environment, particularly the use of plastic and other similar materials.

The poll body warned candidates against disregarding intellectual property rights in their campaign activities, including the use of music and slogans as well as merchandise that can be viewed as copyright infringement due to lack of permit or consent from  the owners.

Violators will be referred to the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines for proper action.

The Comelec said lawful campaign materials may be posted in authorized or designated common areas in public places as well as private property upon the consent of the owner.

Any prohibited form of election propaganda will be stopped, confiscated, removed or taken down by the Comelec.

Any person, party, association and government agency may report prohibited forms or illegal posting of election materials to the poll body.

Candidates or violators will be given 72 hours upon receipt of notice to remove prohibited election materials, the Comelec said.