MANILA- The Commission on Elections began removing
illegal campaign materials in the Philippine capital Thursday as part of its "Oplan Baklas" program.

Posters that exceeded the allowed size (2X3 feet) and other campaign materials that are placed in prohibited areas were removed by the poll body.

Election materials can only be posted in common poster areas authorized by the Comelec and in private properties if owners gave their consent.

• Comelec asks public to report illegal campaign posters

Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said seized illegal campaign materials would be documented and may be used as pieces of evidence against erring election candidates.

Most of the seized illegal campaign materials on Thursday were posters of senatorial aspirants, many of which were tacked on trees, and plastered on electric posts.

Violators may face election offense charges and possible disqualification if they will not remove their illegal campaign materials.

Aside from the poll body, other agencies allowed to remove illegal campaign materials are the Philippine National Police, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Department of Public Works and Highways, and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.