GETTING READY. Lawyer Jerome Brillantes, Siquijor provincial election supervisor (2nd from left, in white shirt) talks to "political supporters" during a simulated exercise for the filing of certificates of candidacy Thursday (Sept. 30, 2021). The activity was held in preparation for the start of COC filing for those seeking election next year, from Oct. 1-8. (Photo courtesy of Comelec-Siquijor)
DUMAGUETE CITY – The Office of the Provincial Election Supervisor of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Siquijor province on Thursday held a simulation exercise for the filing of certificates of candidacy (COCs) for those seeking public posts next year.
Lawyer Jerome Brillantes, the province's election supervisor, told the Philippine News Agency that those who took part in the activity were the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, rescue services, and volunteers.
“We are now ready and everything is in place for the COC filing from October 1-8,” he said.
The simulation exercise was held as the island-province of Siquijor is grappling with a rising number of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases, which resulted in the imposition of granular lockdowns during the past few weeks.
Brillantes said they are instituting measures for the actual start of COC filing on Friday, such as putting up three tents on the Capitol grounds, to ensure safe physical distancing since the Comelec office has a small space and could not accommodate more than 10 people, including its staff.
Covid-19 health and safety protocols will be observed at all times, he assured.
The scenario for the simulation exercise was a peaceful negotiation with a "gubernatorial candidate" filing a COC in the company of supporters who wanted to also gain entry into the poll office but were prevented for health and safety reasons, Brillantes said.
The provincial Comelec office is situated within the Capitol grounds, he noted.
He said he has made it clear that only the candidate will be allowed inside his office, unlike in the past where bodyguards, relatives, and supporters could escort the political aspirant.
At the provincial level, the positions that are up for grabs in Siquijor during the May 9, 2022 elections are governor, vice governor, board members, and the lone district House representative.
Siquijor province has six municipalities -- Siquijor, Maria, Lazi, Enrique Villanueva, Larena, and San Juan, where candidates for mayor, vice mayor, and councilors will file their COCs at the respective Comelec offices in their town. (PNA)
