Quezon City mayor Mari Josefina Tanya ‘Joy’ Belmonte-Alimurung has announced signing the ordinance approved by the city’s Sangguniang Panglungsod to penalize candidates and their supporters who put up their political banners, tarpaulins and posters indiscriminately in areas disallowed or not designated by the Commissions on Elections (Comelec).

A fine of ₱5,000 or imprisonment of not more than six months or both shall be imposed on any person who shall install any political advertising or paraphernalia in violation of the provisions of the city ordinance. The business permits and other relevant permits of the offender may likewise be revoked as part of the penalty.

“For those who are aspiring for government positions in the upcoming May 2025 elections, they must abide by the laws and follow the rules and regulations being imposed by the city government especially against unlawful posting of political and advertising paraphernalia,” the lady local chief executive warned.

Belmonte was referring to an ordinance passed by the city council that requires political propaganda materials in the city to be displayed or posted only in common areas designated by the Comelec. Also prohibited is the posting of election materials on electric posts, public utilities and facilities such as street signs, traffic lights, signal posts, bridges and overpasses.

Under Comelec rules, also prohibited are items that include streamers, tarpaulins, tin plates, stickers, pamphlets, decals, printed notices, signboards, billboards and other advertising paraphernalia.

Belmonte disclosed that candidates may post their propaganda at the Comelec-designated poster area of each barangay in the city.

“The site should not affect any electric post, tree, and government wall or building,” she clarified even as the poll body can also approve additional poster areas for public places such as plaza, markets, and barangay centers and related sites.