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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Comelec stands by its decision to conduct COC filing for BSKE in July

Comelec stands by its decision to conduct COC filing for BSKE in July

Published Mar 2, 2023 08:06 am
For Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Erwin Garcia, the bases for the early filing of certificates of candidacy (COC) will surely outweigh the concerns surrounding it.
Garcia made the statement on Thursday, March 2, after Parañaque 2nd District Rep. Gus Tambunting expressed opposition to the poll body's plan to set the COC filing in July. According to him, the move poses several problems that may compromise the integrity and safety of the electoral process. "Very sensible and logical observations coming from a seasoned and respected politician," Garcia said in a message to reporters. "To our mind, the bases upon which the early filing of COC by BSK candidates were grounded," he added. Garcia also mentioned that for one, "the poll body would be able to accept and resolve with dispatch disqualification and nuisance cases." He said that the delay in the disposition is a perennial concern, especially considering the sheer volume and massiveness. However, he assured the lawmaker that they will study and seriously consider his suggestion/ recommendation. "The Comelec is always willing to hear from anyone anything that will cater to the benefit of the electorate in general and will act accordingly," he said. According to Tambunting, the extended campaign/political season will be too long, which may lead to voter fatigue and disinterest; the prolonged political season will pose a threat to the peace and order in barangays and setting the COC filing period too early may provide undue advantage to some candidates Comelec recently announced that the filing of COCs will begin on July 3 and will be until July 7. It can be recalled that the Commission en banc decided that a person who will file a COC will immediately be considered a candidate. They did this despite the presence of the 2009 Supreme Court (SC) landmark decision on the Peñera vs Comelec case, or the Peñera Doctrine which voids the prohibition on premature campaigning. Garcia explained that because from the time of the filing of the COCs up to the day before the campaign period, candidates were "boldly committing" premature campaigning not afraid of any consequences in view of the Peñera doctrine.
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