DENR reminds bets to observe environment-friendly campaign

As the the campaign period for national candidates started on Feb. 8, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) reminded political aspirants to be environmentally-conscious when it comes to the use of their campaign materials.

DENR Sec. Roy Cimatu reminded candidates that campaign materials may only be allowed in public areas such as plazas, markets, barangays, and centers, as stated in Section 9 of Republic Act (RA) 9006 or the Fair Election Act of 2001.

"We call on all candidates to please be conscious of the environment when posting and disposing of campaign-related materials during this period. Please refrain from posting these materials on trees," said Cimatu.

Cimatu said that violators of this law will be punished with six months to two years imprisonment and a fine up to P5,000.

To reduce campaign season-generated waste, he said the department will ensure the implementation of the Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) 2013-01 signed by the DENR, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Comelec.

"Implementing this circular will reduce the volume of waste during the election and post-election periods as it encourages the use of recyclable, reusable, and environment-friendly materials. It will also protect the trees and plants as the circular prohibits posting on trees, flowering plants, and shrubs," Cimatu said.