The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Itogon led the Synchronized Nationwide Grand Baklas Operation on the first day of the campaign period in Itogon, Benguet on March 28, 2025 for the 2025 National and Local Elections.
A total of 154 illegal campaign materials were taken down, mostly found on trees and areas outside designated common poster zones. While no violations were recorded regarding poster size, improper placement remained a concern, according to Rosario Cariño-Bentres, Election Assistant II of COMELEC Itogon.
“Mostly ket diyay ngay outside common poster are. Wala naming nag-violate ng size kasi okay lang naman, diyay lang ta diyay ngay in po-post da ti trees,” Cariño-Bentres explained.
She also reminded political candidates to follow election regulations stating, “Nu agi post kuma, ijay poster area ladtan kuma tapnu haan nga maikat. Suroten da ladtan ah kuma nu enya ti required nga poster size. Use dagijay recyclable nga materials. Dagita kuma enya.”
The clean-up drive was conducted in coordination with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), the Philippine National Police – Itogon (PNP Itogon), and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). The team began the operation in Poblacion and proceeded toward First Gate, Ucab.
COMELEC Itogon announced that Operation Baklas will continue per barangay, following a schedule set by COMELEC Task Force Baklas, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to a clean and law-abiding campaign period.
#kabadangdiitogon
WORDS | Shayne Ashley Sudiacal, Jelly Rose Navaja
PHOTOS | Jay Ralph Galunza; BSU Interns
