The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is contemplating moving the filing of certificates of candidacy (COC) for the 2028 elections to an earlier date. Comelec Chairperson George Garcia revealed in a recent interview that they are considering shifting the filing period from October 2027 to July 2027. Garcia explained that an earlier filing date would provide the election commission with more time to address any potential disputes. He noted that candidates are not officially recognized until the campaign period begins, and an earlier filing would allow ample time for resolving cases, with unsuccessful candidates having the opportunity to appeal to the Supreme Court by December. Garcia emphasized that the Comelec has the authority to adjust the schedule of election-related activities, although such a change would also impact other aspects of the electoral process, such as voter registration deadlines. Historically, COC filings have occurred in October of the year before the elections, as was the case for the 2025 elections, where filings took place from October 1 to 8, 2024.
Comelec Considers Advancing COC Filing to July for 2028 Elections
·
