In Talisay, 2013 poll bets stay put

CEBU, Philippines -  Not one of the 26 candidates seeking various positions in the May 2013 local elections have withdrawn or recommended substitutions. 

Provincial Comelec officer Lionel Castillano yesterday said candidates who have filed their certificates of candidacy last October has until December 21 to withdraw or make substitutions. 

Castillano said substitutions are allowed for those who have filed their certificates from October 1 to 5.

The substitute must belong to the same political party as the candidate.

He or she should also have a certificate of nomination and acceptance by the political party where he or she belongs. 

The only exceptions are substitutes for a deceased or disqualified candidate where the commission has allowed the filing of COCs up to the mid-day of election day. 

Independent candidates are not allowed to be replaced. 

A candidate backing out from the polls must submit a statement of withdrawal and the reason why the candidate is withdrawing.

It should be duly notarized and filed under oath in six copies.

Under Comelec Resolution No. 9518 or the “Guidelines on the Filing of Certificates of Candidacy (COC) and Nomination and Acceptance of Official Candidates of Registered Political Parties or Coalition of Political Parties in Connection with the May 13, 2013 Automated Synchronized National and Local Regional Elections, no substitution due to withdrawal shall be allowed after December 21, 2012.  (FREEMAN)