Filing of COC begins Friday

On Friday, filing the certificate of candidacy (COC) for those who want to run in next year’s elections is scheduled to begin.

But there have been some changes in the COC filing process, such as a new venue and strict enforcement of health protocols triggered by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Instead, at the Commission on Elections (Comelec) office in Intramuros, Manila, in a tent in a hotel in Pasay City, the commission will receive and process the COCs of those who will run for national positions in the elections.

“It is not possible anymore to hold it there (Intramuros)… very limited space, very limited holding areas,” said Helen Aguila-Flores, Comelec deputy executive director for administration.

The filing of the COC will last until October 8, which coincides with the filing of the Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance (CONA).

Large entourages are prohibited, and only a few are allowed to enter,  whether candidates, Comelec personnel, or members of the media.

Those who go to the venue must first test negative for the COVID-19 swab test. There is also a free on-site antigen test for candidates who do not want to spend.

Filing of COC begins Friday

In the event of a positive on-site test or symptoms of COVID-19, the positive person will be taken to the isolation area to go through the regular protocol of the Inter-Agency Task Force.

“We expect that candidates will be coming in with their test in-hand para mas mabilis ang proseso nila. Their companions will have to be antigen-tested as well. Everyone who enters the tent will be required to undergo an antigen test,” said Comelec Spokesperson James Jimenez.