CAPIZ – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) revealed that 15 out of 370 local candidates who ran in the recent midterm elections in this province failed to submit their Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE) before the June 11 deadline.
Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Tictac Villanueva confirmed the non-compliance, stressing that the candidates — whether they won or lost — are required by law to file their SOCE within 30 days after election day.
“For first-time offenders, administrative fines will be imposed,” Villanueva said, adding that the Comelec is firm in enforcing election laws and campaign finance rules.
She emphasized that winning candidates who have not submitted their SOCE cannot officially assume office, regardless of whether they have already taken their oath.
“Even if you have taken your oath of office, you cannot assume the position until you have submitted your SOCE,” Villanueva warned.
Under Section 14 of Republic Act No. 7166, candidates who fail to file their SOCE for the second time may face perpetual disqualification from holding public office.
Villanueva reiterated that the SOCE requirement ensures transparency and accountability in campaign financing, and that Comelec will continue to monitor and enforce compliance among candidates and political parties./PN
