TACLOBAN CITY - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Eastern Visayas reminded political candidates and their supporters to refrain from posting campaign materials on trees.

DENR-8 Regional Executive Director Tirso Parian, Jr. explained 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 in any other public pleasure ground.

He likewise stated that Section 3 of Presidential Decree 953 punishes violators with imprisonment of six months to two years, or a fine of not less than P500.00, and not more than P5,000.00, or both.

Parian added that the Commission on Elections (Comelec), through the Fair Elections Act, may authorize political parties to create common poster areas for their candidates in public places, but in no instance shall it designate as poster areas any trees, plants, or shrubs along public roads.

“With the various ecological and health benefits that the trees provide, let us help each other in conserving and sparing our trees from any untoward acts against it," he said.

"Cutting or injuring trees by posting or nailing election materials are violations sanctioned by our laws not only this election period but on a daily basis," he added.

In Southern Leyte, District Engineer Manolo Rojas led the 'Oplan Baklas' in the government’s road right-of-way and campaign paraphernalia posted outside the authorized common poster areas.

"This is done to ensure the safety of motorists and the general public who use our major highways,” Rojas said.

The official said it is illegal to usurp or obstruct any portion of the road right-of-way by installing private or permanent structures such as stalls, sheds, billboards, signage, and advertisements.

The election period for candidates running for national positions started on Feb. 8, while the campaign period will kick off on March 25 for local candidates.