MANILA, Philippines — Freedom is not absolute, and on this argument Commission on Elections (Comelec) spokesperson James Jimenez anchored the legality of the actions of Oplan Baklas in taking down election and campaign materials even in private places. Jimenez made the remark after ‘Oplan Baklas’ was met with backlash after authorities took down campaign materials displayed by non-candidates in their private properties — a move criticized for stepping on the freedom of expression and speech of non-candidates, while some critics decry trespassing. ADVERTISEMENT“Neither freedom of expression or freedom of speech are absolute rights. Jimenez argued that the Supreme Court has made a distinction in the treatment of advocacies and treatment of declarative statements in support of a particular candidate. “But even the Supreme Court says that when all you’re doing is endorsing a candidate, you have to accept certain restrictions on your right,” he added.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer February 18, 2022 14:28 UTC