ILOILO City – Attention, all aspiring candidates for the May 12, 2025 midterm elections: no substitution will be allowed due to withdrawal after the deadline for the filing of certificates of candidacy (COC) this October 8.
This policy aims to curb the practice of fielding “dummy” candidates during the filing of COCs, only to replace them later with the real contender, said Commission on Elections (Comelec) Region 6 director, Atty. Dennis Ausan.
This political strategy has often been used to prevent opponents from anticipating or preparing for their rivals’ plans, he noted.
Starting October 9, the poll body will no longer allow substitution due to withdrawal, except in cases of disqualification or death, which are permitted until noontime of election day.
Only within the period of from October 1 to October 8 can candidates belonging to political parties still withdraw and be substituted by another candidate.
“After October 8, if candidates withdraw, they withdraw without substitution, even if they belong to a political party,” Ausan clarified.
Ausan further explained that candidates may still withdraw after October 8, but no substitution will be allowed under any circumstances.
Candidates who wish to withdraw must personally go to the concerned Office of the Election Officers (OEO) to submit five copies of their statement of withdrawal.
Submissions via email or by individuals other than the candidate will not be accepted unless a duly authorized representative files on their behalf, and only if the candidate is physically incapable of appearing due to medical reasons.
Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia also emphasized the need for candidates to commit fully. “Candidates should lay their cards on the table. If you truly want to serve the public, it is best to show your determination from the start,” Garcia said.
Garcia’s initiative has gained support from the House of Representatives, which unanimously approved a measure on August 21 removing withdrawal as a ground for substitution of candidates. The bill passed with 195 votes in favor and none opposed or abstaining.
The proposed law seeks to prevent the manipulation of the electoral process through placeholder candidates, ensuring a more genuine election.
In addition to banning withdrawal as a reason for substitution, the bill includes permanent incapacity — mental or physical impairment — as a ground for substitution, provided it is substantiated by a verified medical report from a licensed physician.
The measure is expected to reinforce the integrity of the electoral system ahead of the 2025 elections./PN
