A day before the nation marks the anniversary of the EDSA People Power Uprising, Bayan Muna Panay denounced what it calls a calculated disinformation campaign aimed at sabotaging its advocacy, which propelled them to file a complaint at the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).
Bayan Muna Partylist-Panay coordinator Irma Espinas-Espinosa condemned the sudden appearance of fraudulent tarpaulins replacing “BAYAN” with “BAYAD” in public spaces, calling it a deliberate attempt to mislead voters and discredit progressive organizations ahead of the elections.
Misleading posters covered key areas, including Jaro, La Paz, and Molo plazas, as well as spots in front of Gaisano Mall in La Paz, outside the Jamerlan Building along Iznart Street, and near Bankers Village in Jaro.
The group denounced the attack as a direct violation of COMELEC Resolutions No. 11086 (2025 NLBPE IRR of the Fair Election Act or RA 9006) and No. 11116 (Anti-Discrimination and Fair Campaigning Guidelines for the 2025 NLBPE). These regulations prohibit deceptive campaign materials and unauthorized postings in public spaces.
Pointing NTF-ELCAC
For over two decades, Bayan Muna and its allies have fought for the people’s welfare and genuine social reforms in Congress, Espisona said.
The group accused the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) of masterminding the attack, describing it as part of a systematic nationwide campaign of red-tagging, electoral sabotage, and disinformation.
They criticized the agency for resorting to deceptive tactics instead of engaging in substantive discussions on national issues.
“This is not an isolated incident. It is part of a systematic, nationwide campaign of red-tagging, electoral sabotage, and misinformation meant to silence progressive voices. The masterminds behind this cowardly act are none other than those who have long vilified and spread lies about Bayan Muna—chief among them, the NTF-ELCAC,” portion of the statement read.
Espinosa framed the smear campaign as part of a broader black propaganda effort aimed at tarnishing the reputation of progressive groups.
COMELEC’s Response
After receiving the complaint, Iloilo City’s COMELEC office launched a citywide clearing operation on February 26 under “Operation Baklas” and removed the alleged misleading posters, including those labeled “Bayad Muna.”
Atty. Pinkie Tentativa, Election Officer IV, confirmed the posters violated COMELEC regulations and reassured the public that election authorities are addressing the issue seriously.
She noted that they received a formal complaint from the Makabayan Bloc regarding the reported deceptive campaign materials, prompting an immediate investigation.
However, while election officials have identified the materials as illegal and discriminatory, they have yet to determine who is responsible for their dissemination.
Bayan Muna Panay urged COMELEC to swiftly investigate and hold those responsible accountable. The group also called on the public to remain vigilant against smear tactics designed to manipulate voters and derail the candidacy of genuine people’s representatives.
“Voters must critically assess propaganda intended to deceive and discredit groups advocating for real reforms. These attacks will not stop us from serving the people and pushing for progressive policies,” Bayan Muna Panay said.
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, contributes to Negros Daily Bulletin, and maintains a blog on Medium.