By Marita Moaje

OPERATION BAKLAS. A staff member of Quezon City’s Department of Public Order and Safety (DPOS) removes a campaign tarpaulin illegally placed in a Meralco utility pole on Friday (Jan. 10, 2025). The city government called on candidates and supporters to cooperate and demonstrate proper conduct in the run-up to the campaign period for the May elections. (Photo courtesy of the QC government)

MANILA – The Quezon City government has intensified its “Oplan Baklas” drive ahead of the May election, taking down campaign material placed in prohibited areas.

On Friday, members of the city’s Department of Public Order and Safety (DPOS) and the Traffic and Transport Management Department (TTMD) conducted removal operations in key areas of the city, including CP Garcia, Katipunan Avenue, Xavierville, East Avenue, Tomas Morato, Kamuning, Timog, Anonas, and E. Rodriguez.

The city government also called on all candidates and their supporters to cooperate and demonstrate proper conduct in the run-up to the campaign period for the upcoming polls.

“Alinsunod sa City Ordinance No. SP-2021 S-2010, ipinagbabawal ang paglalagay ng (City Ordinance SP-2021 S-2010 prohibits the placing of) streamers, stickers, decals, pamphlets, tin plates, cardboards, tarpaulins, printed notices, signboard, billboard, political propaganda, at iba pang uri ng advertising paraphernalia sa mga hindi otorisadong lugar (and other types of advertising paraphernalia in unauthorized locations),” the city government said in a Facebook post.

These prohibited areas include Meralco utility poles, public equipment, and such facilities as street signs, traffic lights, signal posts, bridges, and overpasses.

The QC government urged everyone to voluntarily remove illegal election materials to avoid penalties and sanctions, warning that the DPOS will continue to conduct surprise operations to clear public spaces of unauthorized materials.

Residents are encouraged to call QC Helpline 122 for any concerns or reports regarding violations. (PNA)