ILOILO City – A week before the June 8 deadline, only three candidates in the May 9 elections in this southern city have so far filed their Statement of Contribution and Expenditures (SOCE) at the Commission on Election (Comelec) – Iloilo City.
According toCity Assistant Election Officer Jonathan Sayno, the first to file on May 30 was reelected Councilor Candice Magdalene Tupas and followed by reelected Mayor Jerry Treñas and his councilor-elect son Miguel.
“Whether it be maximum size of tarps permitted, where it is allowed to be placed, to maximum number of minutes of political ads, to documents needed, to expenses allowed and disclosure (I comply with the regulations)… I hope we continue to inspire others and that we serve as good examples most especially to the youth,” said Tupas.
There were a total of 37 candidates who ran for various posts (congressman, mayor, vice mayor, city councilor) here.
Pursuant to Section 11 of the Omnibus Election Code, the office of an elected candidate who fails to file SOCE shall be considered vacant until he submits his SOCE within six months from proclamation.
After this deadline lapses and the candidate fails to assume office, a permanent vacancy shall be declared.
Candidates who fail to submit their SOCE face charges or penalties, including perpetual disqualification from holding public office.
Those who withdrew their candidacies and political parties are also required to submit their expenses as well as contributions received during the campaign period.
The SOCE must be filed by the candidate to the Comelec office where he or she filed his or her Certificate of Candidacy./PN
