INTRAMUROS, Manila — With the start of the campaign period for national candidates in the upcoming 2025 midterm elections just a day past, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) disclosed that several senatorial candidates have violated the guidelines that have been set for electoral campaign materials.

In the latest update, Comelec chairperson George Erwin Garcia said among the violations that were found include improper sizing as well as mounting campaign paraphernalia outside the designated areas for posters and other paraphernalia.

"There are about five Senate bets we initially flagged as consistent violators in every region," Garcia cited from the total 66 candidates vying for a Senate seat.

"They did not comply with the guidelines regarding the size, use of environmental-friendly materials, and display in designated areas," the poll chief added without identifying the errant candidates.

Based on Comelec guidelines, framed or posted posters made out of cloth, paper or cardboard must have an area not exceeding 2 feet by 3 feet while streamers at public meetings or rallies, announcing these activities, should not exceed 3 feet by 8 feet in size.

Among the public places identified by the Comelec that are fit for the display of campaign materials are publicly owned electronic announcement boards, motor vehicles, mass public transport owned by the government, waiting sheds, sidewalks, schools and premises of public transport terminals.

Mounting of campaign materials in public places outside of the designated common poster areas or in private property without the consent of the owner is prohibited.

Chairman Garcia has appealed to candidates to follow the guidelines and also urged them to use campaign materials that are biodegradable to help protect the environment.

At the same time, he warned that the Comelec will use existing policies to file charges against candidates who will damage the environment in the course of their campaign.

As part of the Comelec's 'Oplan Baklas', the poll body will issue notices to candidates directing them to remove their illegal campaign materials within three days or the removal of unlawful campaign materials posted on designated common poster areas or other public places.

Failure to comply may result to the filing of an election offense, which may lead to the bet's disqualification.