THE Commission on Elections in Central Visayas (Comelec 7) has reminded all local candidates, including those who did not win their respective races, to file their Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (Soce) before the deadline on June 11, 2025.
Comelec 7 Director Francisco Pobe said on Tuesday, May 13, that failure to meet this deadline can result in penalties, including potential disqualification from holding public office for the candidate.
The Soce is a financial document wherein candidates disclose how their political campaigns were funded and how those funds were spent.
The financial disclosure should include cash and in-kind donations, as well as expenses related to rallies, advertisements, and personnel. The Soce is a mandatory requirement under Philippine election law.
“In one month, they must submit,” said Pobe adding that even those who have withdrawn from the race must submit their Soce.
Prerequisite
For winning candidates, the Soce is a prerequisite before they can assume office after the elections along with taking the oath of office and receiving a certificate of proclamation.
Section 14 of Republic Act (RA) 7166, the Synchronized National and Local Elections and Electoral Reforms Act, mandates that candidates and political party treasurers must submit a “comprehensive, accurate, and detailed report of all campaign contributions and expenses within 30 days after election day.”
RA 7166 states that failure to comply constitutes an administrative offense. Offenders are liable to pay an administrative fine ranging from P1,000 to P30,000 for the first offense at the Comelec’s discretion. For the second offense, the administrative fine is between P2,000 to P60,000. The offender also faces perpetual disqualification from holding public office.
Candidates who overspend during the campaign period are subject to imprisonment of one to six years. Disqualification from holding public office and removal of their right to vote are also penalties under the Omnibus Election Code.
A candidate belonging to a political group may only spend P3 per voter; while independent candidates may spend P5 per voter. / EHP