29,640 COCs filed for BSKE in Negros Occidental

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — As the filing of certificates of candidacy for the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE) closed on Saturday, a total of 29,640 candidates filed COCs in Negros Occidental, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) said yesterday.

Ian Lee Ananoria, provincial Comelec supervisor, said the six-day COC filing period for the BSKE, which started on Aug. 28, was peaceful and orderly.

There are 662 seats for the position of barangay captain, with 1,611 vying for the post.

Among the candidates are 1,239 men and 372 women.

In the race for barangay councilor, which has 4,634 seats available, 15,612 aspirants filed their COCs.

Of the figure, 11,097 are men and 4,515 women, Comelec records showed.

There are 1,882 aspirants for the position of SK chairman including 1,117 men and 765 women.

A total of 10,535 people filed COCs for the position of SK member. Of the figure, 5,616 are men and 4,919 women.

The Comelec warned candidates against engaging in premature campaigning as the official campaign period from Oct. 19 to 28 has yet to start.

The barangay and SK elections will be conducted on Oct. 30.

Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson reminded candidates that their purpose is public service.

“Integrity, hard work and commitment to service must be the compass guiding your leadership and service to our fellow Negrenses,” Lacson said.