Attorney Romulo Macalintal called out the Commission on Election (COMELEC) on their unconstitutional action on entering the premises of private citizens to remove election posters of candidates, citing the experiences of Leni-Kiko volunteer groups from various places.

The statement made by the election lawyer on a media briefing today hosted by Vice President Leni Robredo’s campaign team, reiterated owner of the private property whether supporting Leni’s slate or not can file a case to the Supreme Court. 

“It is very arbitrary in a clear case of abuse of power and discretion and violation of one’s constitutional rights to property. This is what the COMELEC has done to those non-candidates who posted allegedly oversized campaign materials on their own private property,” said Romulo.

Romulo also addressed that the posting of campaign material in private property does not endanger government or the public interest, justified it as the citizen’s right to free speech and expression. 

During the briefing, Macalintal showed videos sent by Robredo’s volunteers in Isabela province where police and fire officers removed the campaign materials on private property. Romulo said this action is illegal because officers must present a search warrant before entering the premises. 

“Ito maliwanag na maliwanag, trespass to dwelling. Saka bakit ang pulis nag-aassist?  Walang karapatan ang pulis na mag-assist, nando’n lang sila para to maintain peace and security,” he added. 

Election lawyer urged the COMELEC to focus on the other important issues this coming election like vote-buying, and encourage the public to fight for their rights because no one will fight for them. 

Photo Credit: Facebook.com/comelec.ph