Environmental advocacy group EcoWaste Coalition on Thursday reiterated its call for a “basura-free” Eleksyon 2025.
In a statement, the group asked local and national candidates to comply with the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act, and refrain from littering as they conclude their campaign events on May 10.
“As the official campaign period ends this Saturday, we appeal to all candidates to ensure that their remaining activities do not contribute to further environmental degradation… Please do not turn the venues of your miting de avance into dumpsites. Enforce RA 9003 and the ‘clean as you go’ policy, as well as implement a ‘no smoking, no vaping’ policy,” said Zero-Waste campaigner Cris Luague.
The group also urged candidates to adhere to the campaign ban on May 12, to avoid use of plastics for poll-watchers, and refrain from putting up “thank you” tarps or signs for supporters.
“On May 12, election day, please respect the ban on campaigning, including the distribution of sample ballots and flyers. Aside from being illegal, the distribution of such campaign materials contributes to the widespread littering observed in many polling places and their adjacent streets. Children and the elderly should not be used by the candidates to distribute sample ballots like in past elections,” he said.
“We also advise candidates to avoid using styrofoam and other single-use plastics for the meals of their poll watchers and other volunteers. Cut down on plastic bottles by advising your teammates to bring their own water in reusable containers. Also, remind them to use the segregated waste bins for their discards,” he added.
The organization shared that various types of litter were collected in polling places post-Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) in 2023.
“Right after election, we urge all candidates to conduct post-campaign clean-up regardless of their success or failure to get the people’s trust and votes. Win or lose, go out and remove campaign materials and ensure their environmentally safe recycling or disposal in line with environmental and electoral laws,” Luague said.
— Jiselle Anne C. Casucian/BM, GMA Integrated News
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EcoWaste Coalition urges ‘basura-free’ Eleksyon 2025
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