The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is keeping tarpaulins and other campaign materials that were seized during the controversial Oplan Baklas of the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

MMDA chairman Romando Artes said the campaign materials were all confiscated during a series of operations the agency had with the Comelec and the Philippine National Police (PNP), adding that they were all kept in a place and are available if needed.

As per Comelec instructions, it is with us for safekeeping since they are needed by Comelec for evidence," Artes told the Manila Bulletin.

Amid criticisms and questions of the legality of Oplan Baklas, the Comelec has maintained that oversized tarpaulins, as well as campaign materials that were placed in areas not designated to put campaign materials, must be removed.

But Comelec's stand has been questioned by a number of groups, including from the legal community, as they accused that agents of the poll body also removed campaign materials even if they are inside private properties.

Critics argued that while they do not question the Comelec for removing campaign materials in public areas, the rule does not apply for those within a private property.

The issue was already brought in the court, the recent development is that a Baguio City court has issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the implementation of Oplan Baklas.

Supporters of presidential candidate and Vice President Leni Robredo also brought up the issue to the Supreme Court.