www.city.gov.ph/ordinances

by Awi Mayuga (3rd entry)

For one of my projects in my Law and Environment class, I was tasked to research on local ordinances that prohibit the indiscriminate posting of campaign materials, or those that conform to Section 9 of Republic Act 9006, also known as the Fair Election Act. It should be a fairly easy task because many of the cities -- at least those comprising Metropolitan Manila -- have created their virtual property on the world wide web.

I am now finding out that I spoke too soon. Many of the city websites contain only the city information on land area and population; organizational structure; city services; setting-up-business requirements; tourism spots; and yes, the requisite message and curriculum vitae of the current mayor. Oftentimes, there is no section on local ordinances -- and should I be lucky to find one, it contains only a few.

Sigh.

I guess I'm left to find out if the Contact Us section really works.

img src: Wikipedia

*Sec. 9. Posting of Campaign Materials. - The COMELEC may authorize political parties and party-list groups to erect common poster areas for their candidates in not more than ten (10) public places such as plazas, markets, barangay centers and the like, wherein candidates can post display or exhibit election propaganda: Provided, That the size of the poster areas shall not exceed twelve (12) by sixteen 16) feet or its equivalent.

Independent candidates with no political parties may likewise be authorized to erect common poster areas in not more than ten (10) public places, the size of which shall not exceed four (4) by six (6) feet or its equivalent.

Candidates may post any lawful propaganda material in private places with the consent of the owner thereof, and in public places or property which shall be allocated equitably and impartially among the candidates.