DENR Bicol warns candidates, supporters on posting campaign materials on trees; stiff jail terms

With the start of the May 2022 Elections campaign period, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Bicol headed by Regional Executive Director Francisco E. Milla, Jr., CESO III urges all candidates and supporters to refrain from posting their election campaign posters on our trees.

“DENR Bicol is reminding the public that campaign materials should only be posted at the designated poster areas assigned by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC),” Regional Executive Director Milla said.

He explained that putting up streamers and tarpaulins on trees, especially when using iron nails, not only severely damages the health condition of trees, but is also prohibited by law.

“Thus, we would like to advice the candidates and supporters who have nailed various campaign materials on trees to voluntarily remove them now before they are served with warnings,” RED Milla added.

Individuals, who will be caught nailing or in any form damaging trees, shrubs or any plants in public places will be penalized under Republic Act No. 3571, or “An Act to Prohibit the Cutting, Destroying or Injuring of Planted or Growing Trees, Flowering Plants and Shrubs or Plants of Scenic Value Along Public Roads, in Plazas, Parks, School Premises or in Any Other Public Pleasure Ground.”

Section 3 of Presidential Decree (PD) 953 prohibits the cutting, destroying, damaging or injuring of naturally grown and planted trees of any kind unless it is necessary for public safety.

PD 953 punishes violators with imprisonment of six months to two years, or with a fine of from P500 to P5,000 or both imprisonment and fine at the discretion of the court.

The DENR appeals to use eco-friendly materials instead of tarpaulins, which may contain toxic substances that are harmful to the health and environment.

DENR Bicol calls on the public to report any violations to the nearest DENR field office or via its official FB page: DENR Bicol.