Comelec sets deadline for submission of campaign expenses

MANILA, Philippines - The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued the omnibus rules and regulations governing campaign finance and disclosure seven months before next year’s polls.

Candidates, political parties and party-list groups must file their Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCEs) by June 8, 2016 or 30 days after election day, according to the 52-page Resolution No. 9991 of the Comelec.

“Regardless of whether they won or not, (they) must file their SOCEs,” read the resolution.

“The June 8, 2016 deadline shall be final and non-extendible. Submissions beyond this period shall not be accepted.”

Violation shall constitute an election offense   punishable with up to six years imprisonment, suspension of the right to vote and disqualification from holding public office.

Starting in next year’s elections, the poll body is   limiting the number of hard copies of SOCE   candidates are required to file. Instead, the submitted documents should be accompanied by soft or electronic copies.

The poll body has reminded candidates and political parties about the restrictions on “propaganda materials donated or contributed by any person to a candidate or party.”

Under the resolution, these materials shall “not be printed, published, broadcasted or exhibited unless accompanied by the written acceptance by the candidate or party, through party treasurer.” The letter cannot be delegated to duly authorized representatives designated to receive such donations or contributions.

It also stated that every person giving a contribution, whether in cash or in kind, is also required to file a Report of Contribution to the Comelec.