Comelec receives 23 COCs on first day of filing

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) received Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) and Certificates of Nomination and Acceptance (CONAs) from 23 national position aspirants and 18 party-list groups on the first day of filing, which began on Friday, October 1.

Only six presidential candidates and three vice-presidential hopefuls filed their COCs on the first day due to strict health protocols amid the ongoing pandemic.

Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez stated that the low turnout was not related to the pandemic but rather a usual pattern seen every election year, with most candidates filing towards the end of the period.

Health protocols were strictly implemented at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila compound in Pasay City where the filings took place, including antigen testing for those entering and isolation areas for those who test positive.