2,615 local candidates file SOCE

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Commission on Elections (Comelec) in the Bicol region on Monday reported that 2,615 out of 2,806 candidates who filed their certificates of candidacy for the May 12 national and local elections have submitted their Statements of Contribution and Expenditure (SOCEs) before the June 11 deadline.

In an interview, Maria Juana Valeza, Comelec Bicol Director, said “late submissions will not be accepted.”

Among the six provinces, Albay recorded 455 out of 475 candidates submitting their SOCEs; Camarines Norte had 334 out of 349; Camarines Sur reported 854 out of 929; Catanduanes had 260 out of 271; Masbate recorded 374 out of 393; and Sorsogon reported 338 out of 389 candidates.

Valeza emphasized that candidates who fail to submit their SOCE will incur an administrative fine and will not be allowed to assume public office.

Based on Comelec Resolution 11109, a candidate’s failure to file SOCE shall constitute an administrative offense for which the offender shall be liable to pay an administrative fine.

“The fine shall be paid within 30 days from receipt of notice of such failure, and it shall be enforceable by a writ of execution against the properties of the offender,” the resolution read.

The administrative fines based on the position were as follows: for Representative - PHP30,000 for first offense and PHP60,000 for second offense; Governor and Vice-Governor - PHP25,000 for first offense and PHP50,000 for second offense; Member of Sangguniang Panlalawigan with PHP20,000 for first offense and PHP40,000 for second offense.

For city mayors and vice-mayors - PHP20,000 for first offense and PHP40,000 for second offense; Sanguniang Panlungsod - PHP15,000 for first offense and PHP30,000 for second offense; and for municipal mayor, vice mayors, and members of Sangguniang Bayan - PHP10,000 for first offense and PHP20,000 for second offense.

“If a candidate fails to file their SOCE twice, it could serve as grounds for disqualification in future elections,” Valeza said.

She said all candidates are required to submit SOCE, whether they win or lose. (PNA)