Inclusion of early campaign funds in SOCE unclear

CEBU, Philippines — It is still not clear whether or not the money spent for the early campaign materials will be included in the Statements of Election Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE) according to the Provincial Election Supervisor (PES).

The expenses made by a candidate have to be accounted for and be submitted to the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) pursuant to Section 14 of RA 7166. Win or lose, a candidate must file his or her SOCE after the polls.

For next year’s elction, the deadline for the SOCE is June 12.

Now that premature campaigning is no longer an election offense, Atty. Lionel Marco Castillano said that he will still verify with their central office whether it should be included in the SOCE.

“Gray area pa na. We still have to ask,” he said.

There is no longer premature campaigning following the Supreme Court (SC) decision on the disqualification case of then mayor Rosalinda Penera of Sta. Monica, Surigao del Norte town in 2009.

Before it, premature campaigning was considered an election offense under the manual election system.

With this, Castillano said May 2019 hopefuls are now free to distribute flyers, posters, and other paraphernalia bearing their names as early as now.

“All violations on campaigning as provided for in the Fair Elections Act shall only be enforced during the campaign period,” he said.

However, Castillano reminded the aspirants to also abide if there are city or municipal ordinances regarding the putting up of posters and banners.

The campaign period for members of the House of Representatives, regional, provincial, city, and municipal officials is from March 30 to May 11, 2019.

Castillano believes that not prohibiting early campaign stints is beneficial to both the candidates and voters.

Premature campaigning, he said, can give the candidates a longer time to introduce themselves especially those who are new in the political arena.

On the other hand, the voters can have more time scrutinizing their next possible leaders in their respective community. — MBG (FREEMAN)