The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) on Wednesday urged all candidates of the May 13 midterm elections to file their Statements of Contributions and Expenses (SOCE) not later than June 13.
“Iyong mga tumakbong kandidato mag-file sila ng kanilang expenditures at ‘yan nanaman ang kailangan natin. Within 30 days after election kailangan makapag-submit sila dito in proper forma. Kapag nagpasa sila, kumpleto, notaryado, with supporting documents ibig sabihin [may] resibo,” Girlie Pacamarra, city election officer said.
Pacamarra pointed out that candidates who will fail to submit their SOCE within 30 days will be fined up to P60,000 or face administrative charges that can cause them to be perpetually disqualified from holding public office.
She added every candidate must file their SOCE whether they won or lost in the recent midterm polls.
“Kung hindi sila maka-file, mahigpit ang campaign finance office ngayon (CFO). Ang CFO, mahigpit ‘yan sila, talagang sini-seryoso nila ang failure to file ng SOCE. Mayroong napa-file-an ng kaso niyan, merong nadi-disqualify niyan, hindi sila nagbibiro. Over expenses hindi rin pwede,’’ said Pacamarra.
Pacamarra said those who won in the elections yet failed to file their SOCE will not be able to assume office.
