Today, a newly-created task force will start removing all illegal campaign materials from public places or undesignated areas in Iloilo City.

Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog created the group last week to remove campaign materials of local and national candidates that hang in public places such as government-owned buildings, bridges, electrical posts and trees, among others.

The mayor said the task force will operate while the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has not yet determined the common posting areas for such banners.

“The task force will dismantle and take off the campaign materials before the start of the campaign period on March 29. Even my own campaign materials are not exempted in the order,” he said.

According to the Comelec, the local election campaign will start on March 29 in preparation for the May 13, 2013 elections.

The task force is headed by City Administrator Norlito Bautista. Its team members are the Task Force Asis, Special Services Unit, City Environment and Natural Resources Office and City Legal Office to charge violators.*