MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) reaffirmed that it will not extend the June 11 deadline for the filing of Statements of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCEs) for candidates who ran in the May 12 midterm elections.

“There is no extension. We do not plan to give an extension to anyone who asks. That is the deadline, June 11,” said Comelec Chairperson George Garcia in an interview.

Garcia emphasized that the filing deadline had been announced well in advance, and candidates must be prepared to face the consequences of non-compliance.

The Comelec is accepting SOCE submissions from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays, including holidays, at its Political Finance and Affairs Department office in Intramuros, Manila.

Candidates are required to submit the SOCE in both hard copies and digital formats (PDF and Excel). The poll body stressed that submissions via registered mail, email, courier, or messenger services will not be accepted.

Failure to file the SOCE will bar a candidate from assuming office and may lead to an administrative case. Meanwhile, those who comply will receive a Certificate of Formal Compliance, which must be presented before taking office. (PNA)