LOS BAÑOS, Laguna -- The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) here has reminded all candidates in the May 14 synchronized barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections that they have until June 13, 2018 to file their Statement of Contributions and Expenses (SOCE) with the Office of the Election Officer in each town or city in the province.
DILG-Laguna Cluster A head Marilyn Valenzuela-Manrique on Wednesday clarified that the provisions stated in Republic Act 7166, or “An Act Providing for Synchronized National and Local Elections and For Electoral Reforms,” covers all candidates whether winners or losers.
Manrique said the election law also includes those candidates who withdrew from the roster of legitimate candidates and those who won unopposed in the recent polls.
She said those who will file their respective SOCE in accordance with the said law will be given the “Certificate of Compliance,” which would also serve as proof by the newly-elected barangay and SK officials before they assume their respective post beginning 12 noon of June 30.
Manrique also said that the election law also penalizes those who violate the required filing of the SOCE, which include perpetual disqualification to hold public office; revocation of their right to run for the next elections; prohibition from being appointed to any government position or work in any government unit.
She said that these penalties imposed for breaching the requirement on filing the SOCE has been upheld by a Supreme Court ruling. (Ruben E. Taningco/PNA)
