NOW that the filing period for certificates of candidacy (COCs) is over, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) assured that it will be strict in approving attempts to field substitute candidates for those who will voluntarily withdraw their candidacies.
In a virtual press briefing, Comelec Chairman Sheriff Abas said they will stand firm on the rules on substitution as rumors persisted that presidential daughter and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio will substitute to become a presidential candidate.
"We will assure you that we will not change the rules in the middle of the game. Rest assured that the Comelec will be very firm," said Abas.
"The thing that you are all concerned of, that won't happen with this Comelec en banc. We assure you that we will be very fair," he furthered.
Under Comelec rules, an aspirant/official candidate of a duly registered political party, who dies, withdraws, or is disqualified after the last day for the filing of COCs, may be substituted by an aspirant/official candidate belonging to, and nominated by the same political party.
No substitute will be allowed for any independent candidate.
The substitute of an aspirant, who withdrew his candidacy, has only until November 15, 2021 to file his/her COC. No substitution due to withdrawal shall be allowed after November 15.
However, the Comelec said a party may still endorse a non-member as a substitute bet.
"If a Cona (certificate of nomination and acceptance) is issued in his/her favor, there is presumption that he/she is a member of said party," said Comelec Commissioner Antonio Kho.
Duterte-Carpio is not a member of PDP-Laban, but there are speculations that she will be the substitute candidate for Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who was fielded as the surprise presidential candidate of the party.
Duterte-Carpio filed her COC to seek reelection as Davao City mayor under the regional political party, Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HNP). (HDT / SunStar Philippines)