Poll body requires new info for COCs

AS THE filing of Certificates of Candidacy (COC) nears, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) introduces additional safeguards that are included in the new COC forms for the May 2013 midterm elections.

Lawyer James Jimenez, Comelec spokesperson, said in a statement that included in the new COC form is the strict requirement for candidates to file their “full, true and itemized” Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (Soce) in connection with the election.

Jimenez said under the new COC, candidates are required to declare under oath that they will file with the Comelec their Soce within 30 days after the election.

“This added safeguard will help in leveling the playing field by promoting transparency in their election spending,” Jimenez said.

Also included as requirement in filing of COC is the filing of Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance (Cona) of the official candidates of the duly registered political party or coalition of political parties simultaneously with the filing of COC.

“This will help minimize confusion as to the affiliations of the candidates,” Jimenez added.

An additional box requiring the inclusion of “Name/Words to appear on the ballot not to exceed 30 characters” can also be found in the new COC.

“This was included to give candidates a certain degree of freedom in determining how their name will appear on the official ballot,” he said.

The period for the filing of COCs is from October 1 to October 5, 2012 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.