Filing of COCs for barangay, SK polls begins Sept. 14
Though nothing is certain yet whether the synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections would push through on October 29, 2007 or not, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) here will start accepting certificates of candidacy (COC) from September 14 to to 19, 2007.
Comelec Assistant Regional Director Atty. Tomas Valera said those who want to run for barangay captain, barangay kagawad and Sangguniang Kabataan can file their certificates of candidacy within the said period.
The Comelec based its decision to accept COCs on Republic Act No. 9340 and Republic Act 9164, an Act Amending Republic Act No. 9164 which resets the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections. The Act said there shall be synchronized barangay and sangguniang kabataan elections which shall be held on July 15, 2002. Subsequent synchronized barangay and sangguniang kabataan elections shall be held on the last Monday of October 2007 and every three years thereafter.
The date for the filing of the certificates of candidacy is made early in order for Comelec to take action on any disqualification cases filed against a candidate.
He said unless a decision comes out postponing the synchronized elections, the Comelec is obligated to prepare for the election. Valera also believes that there is enough government funds to be spent for the synchronized SK and barangay elections.
Any punong barangay and barangay kagawad who wish to run should know how to read and write and must have a residency in the barangay for one year. For the SK elections, candidates must be 15 years old and not more than 18 years old from the time of the election proper.
The candidates can file their certificates of candidacy in their respective city or municipal election office. Any interested candidate should comply with the rules that governs the filing of certificates of candidacy and they should have three copies of their certificates of candidacy.