THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) has encouraged parties and candidates to use recyclable and environmentally friendly materials as part of its bid to promote green campaigning.
In its en banc Resolution No. 11111, the Comelec said: “Election propaganda in the form of posters or standing displays (standees) that are not made of cloth, paper, cardboard, or any recyclable materials, shall not be allowed.
“Single-use plastics, as well as styrofoam and other flex, non-biodegradable materials, and hazardous substances used in election campaigns, services, or events, shall also be prohibited.”
The Commission said recyclable and environmentally friendly materials include reusable materials such as food and beverage containers and energy-efficient lighting and sound systems during rallies.
The Commission also urged candidates to use banners that are biodegradable or made with reusable materials as well as campaign materials made of sustainable local alternatives such as natural fabrics, recycled paper, and compostable plastics.
The Comelec said they are also encouraged to use electric vehicles or hybrid-electric vehicles for motorcades; and use LED Billboards and other digital platforms for their campaign materials.
The poll body said it is issuing the guidelines as a way to help in the drive to protect the environment.
“From campaign activities to voting, the environmental impact of electoral processes extends far beyond the ballot box, encompassing resource depletion, pollution, and waste generation,” it said.
“The environmental impact of the electoral exercise has often been overlooked, hence, there is a need to urgently address the environmental toll of elections and explore alternative and more sustainable options,” the Comelec added.
Meanwhile, the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) is looking for more volunteers for the forthcoming electoral exercise.
In a radio interview yesterday, PPCRV National Communications Director Ana Singson said: “We are still recruiting as our target is to reach 350,000 to 450,000 volunteers for the 2025 elections.”
Singson said more volunteers are needed because PPCRV is involved in several election-related activities, including the source code review for the automated election system, public bidding activities, ballot printing, and delivery of election paraphernalia.
She said PPCRV also serves as election observers in polling precincts as well as in manning Voters’ Assistance Desks in all voting centers on Election Day.
She said PPCRV volunteers do not need to have any qualifications. All they have to do is approach the PPCRV coordinator in their parishes.
“What we are only requiring is that they must not support and campaign for any candidate as we are an impartial group,” said Singson.
The Commission on Elections has granted PPCRV continuing accreditation as the “citizens’ arm” in all electoral exercises.
This as the PPCRV was given credit for its role in “innumerable elections and democratic processes” conducted by the Comelec.
