IN PHOTOS: Paper politics

With the Fair Elections Act or Republic Act (RA) 9006 in place, and the burgeoning anti-epal movement, how did national and local candidates appropriate public space for their respective campaigns?

The Comelec already reprimanded candidates for various violations, from wrong poster sizes to putting posters in prohibited public places.

Campaign materials however continue to be seen in streets, sidewalks, sheds, and in many public utility vehicles, such posting is regulated by law.

Destroying or defacing lawful election propaganda goes against the policy of RA 9006 that the State shall ensure that bona fide candidates for any public office shall be free from any form of harassment and discrimination.

Election propaganda materials have become canvasses for a new political pop art.

A pair of sunglasses were drawn on a handsome candidate’s poster on a pedicab. Another candidate was brandished with a red cross on his forehead, the symbol of the anti-Christ. One was made to look like Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler.

But is this a sign of a more enlightened electorate? “Politicians are all liars and cheats,” says Albert, a fortune teller in Quiapo.

Likewise, Alvin, a pedicab driver and head of a family of 4, said politicians only make the poor, poorer. “Lalong nagpapahirap,” he quipped. 

On the other hand, Willy, a jeepney driver, said he is voting for the incumbent mayor in their locality because their community benefitted from the re-electionist’s projects.

Quiapo resident Alexander remains hopeful. “I hope when they are in power they will still help us,” he said.

The anti-epal movement is against political grandstanding, posturing, and “poster-ing,” whether they are in office or seeking public office.

These locals have actively campaigned against traditional politicians or trapos and political dynasties. They said that they want to reclaim public property from trapos. 

“Ang mga may papel na sinasabi nila ay gumagawa ng papel talaga, hindi ‘yung pumapapel lang, hindi ‘yung puro salita lang. Kasi mahirap na sabihing papel eh. Ang papel gawa lang sa papel ‘yan. Pero pag pumapel ka, dapat may nagagawa ka,” said Benjamin, a barber based in Manila. (Those who are in posters should really do something, and not remain posterboys with empty promises. Posters are just made of paper. If you want to be known, you should really help the public.)

Some people have found ingenious ways of using these propaganda materials such as shade against the sun, a bed to lie on, or as a mud rack.

It is for the people to decide whether to trust the promises of politicians, which are written on paper posters. “We need to vote,” said Market vendor Elisa from Laguna. – Rappler.com

George Moya is a former marketing professional who dables in street photography. He contributed this photo essay to shed light on what is often taken for granted.