Comelec asks: Make COC filing solemn, not a fiesta

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has asked politicians aspiring for elective posts in next year’s elections to make the filing of their certificates of candidacy (COC) solemn and devoid of fanfare.

In an interview on Thursday, Comelec Commissioner Luie Tito Guia said politicians should liken the filing of their certificates of candidacy to a solemn event as they would be of service to the people.

“Consider the filing of certificate of candidacy as a sacred event—sacred in a sense that you will put yourself before the people and present yourself as someone who is capable of leading the country,” Guia said.

The commissioner also said the filing should not feature lewd acts.

Liberal Party was hit by netizens after an event by one of its members, Laguna Rep. Benjamin Agarao, featured twerking sexy dancers. The dancers belonged to the group called Playgirls and were said to be a “gift” by former Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chair Francis Tolentino.

Tolentino stepped down from his post on Wednesday after claiming the faux pas and asked LP to drop him from its senatorial slate.

“It is better to make the filing dignified,” Guia said.

The filing of COCS will start on Monday, Oct. 12. Aries Joseph Hegina/RC