THE DEPARTMENT of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Regional Office 6 has issued a timely reminder as the election season heats up – political candidates and their supporters should refrain from posting campaign materials on trees. This is a call to safeguard our environment and promote responsible campaigning practices.
Trees are vital to our ecosystem, serving as the lungs of our communities by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen. Attaching materials such as posters or flyers to trees can cause irreversible damage to these living organisms. The practice of hammering materials into trees compromises their outer bark, which serves as a protective barrier against diseases and decay. Even a small injury can invite harmful pathogens, leading to the tree’s decline and potentially shortening its lifespan.
Beyond the environmental impact, this practice also undermines the integrity of the electoral process. Election laws, such as the Fair Elections Act (Republic Act No. 9006), strictly regulate where campaign materials can be displayed. Campaign posters are only allowed in designated common poster areas, which are temporary structures set up for this purpose. Posting materials on trees and other non-designated areas not only violates these rules but also sets a poor example for the public, sending the message that rules are optional if they are inconvenient.
Elections are a reflection of our collective values, and the manner in which we conduct ourselves during this time matters. Campaigning responsibly and respectfully goes beyond just following the law — it is demonstrating leadership and consideration for the community and the environment. Candidates, political leaders, and their supporters are encouraged to use their platforms to advocate for cleaner, more sustainable methods of campaigning.
It is heartening to see the DENR taking a proactive stance in protecting our environment during this election period. As the campaign season progresses, let us all do our part in supporting these efforts. By choosing to engage in environmentally responsible practices, we not only protect our natural resources but also promote a culture of integrity and respect during one of the most important times in our democratic process.
Let us work together to ensure that this election season is about making choices that benefit our communities, environment, and the future of our nation.
