23 aspirants file COCs on Day 1 of filing period

Six presidential aspirants and three vice presidential hopefuls were among the 23 individuals who filed their Certificates of Candidacy (COC) for national positions on the first day of the filing period.

Twelve more presidential aspirants and three for the vice-presidential post filed their COCs on Monday, October 4, 2021.

Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez stated that the low turnout on the first day is a typical pattern and not necessarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jimenez suggested that candidates often wait until the end of the filing period, especially since October 7 and 8 are considered auspicious dates.

Among the presidential aspirants who filed their COCs were Senator Manny Pacquiao, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso, and independent bets Sonny Boy Andrade, Juanita Trocenio, Alfredo Respuesto, Gabriela Larot, Maria Mercedes Pesigan, Delia Aniñon, Renato Valera, Melchor "Kidlat" Puno, Winston Kayanan, Faisal Mangondato, and Leo Cadion.

The three aspirants for Vice President are Carlos Serapio, Aksyon's Willie Ong, and Princess Sushine Amirah Magdangal.

The Philippine Green Republican Party has completed its senatorial roster, and independent aspirants Narciso Solis, Junbert Guigayuma, and Jennet "Genie" Tam, and Marietta Mindalano-Adam are also seeking senatorial seats.