Comelec requires sign language, Braille for political ads
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has required the use of the Filipino sign language in on-air advertisements and the Braille system in printed campaign materials of candidates and their political parties for the May elections.
"Candidates and parties are required to incorporate sign language interpreters and closed captioning in broadcast election propaganda intended for exhibition on television and/or the internet, and are encouraged to ensure the availability of their respective printed campaign materials in Braille," the Comelec said in Resolution No. 10488 dated January 30, 2019.
The Comelec included this rule under Section 6, or the lawful election propaganda, of the resolution signed by the en banc.
The same resolution set the correct size of printed campaign materials from leaflets, streamers, and other election paraphernalia not prohibited under the Omnibus Election Code.
The Comelec also encouraged candidates and their supporters to use sustainable materials, especially when there is a standing legislation from local government units.
"Parties and candidates are hereby encouraged to use recyclable and environment-friendly materials and avoid those that contain hazardous chemicals and substances in the production of their campaign and election propaganda," the Comelec said.
The Comelec started its crackdown on campaign materials that are oversized, placed in prohibited areas or both, after the deadline it imposed on candidates lapsed on February 14.
The commission said campaign advertisements in government-run infrastructures are also prohibited. —LDF, GMA News