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Comelec to 2019 poll aspirants: Don't turn filing of COCs into 'circus of supporters'


The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is gearing toward a "dignified" filing of certificates of candidacy (COC) for aspirants in the 2019 midterm elections.

Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said the goal of the poll body's preparations for the filing period, which begins Thursday, is to ensure orderly proceedings.

"Gusto lang namin i-emphasize na ang goal ng ating paghahanda ngayon is to ensure that the filing is dignified," Jimenez said at a news forum in Manila on Wednesday.

"We don't want to turn it into a circus of supporters. Ayaw natin na maging magulo."

Aspiring candidates in next year's national and local elections can file their COCs on October 11, 12,15, 16, and 17. The period was reset from the original schedule of October 1-5.

Jimenez said the Comelec is ready for the filing period and is already conducting a dry-run of the proceedings.

He advised candidates to "take the initiative" to urge their supporters not to hold gatherings outside Palacio del Gobernador, the Comelec building, in Intramuros, Manila, to maintain order.

Filing rules

The Comelec spokesman also reiterated the house rules to govern the filing period, which will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for five days.

For each candidate to national positions, only five persons, including the candidate, will be allowed to enter Palacio del Gobernador, he said. The filing will be conducted at the third floor of the building.

In the case of party-lists, 10 people per group can enter. The filing will be held at the eighth floor.

There will be no COC filing fee, he said. 

Firearms and pets are prohibited inside the building. Members of the media will be given passes for coverage in the following manner: five transferable passes per television network, two for print, and two for social media.

Substitution of candidates following voluntary withdrawal will be allowed until November 29, after which the only withdrawal to be permitted are for candidates who died or were disqualified, Jimenez said. —KBK, GMA News

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