Comelec Chairman Confirms All Seven Aspirants Likely to Remain for Antipolo Special Polls
In a recent development regarding the upcoming special elections, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has expressed confidence that all seven individuals who filed their Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) will make the final list of candidates. Comelec Chairman George Garcia provided this assurance during an interview, highlighting the absence of any petitions for disqualification or cancellation of candidacy at this stage.
Full List of Aspirants for the March 14 Special Elections
The seven aspirants who have submitted their COCs for the special polls scheduled on March 14 in the Second District of Antipolo City are as follows:
- Dandin Infante
- Reden Llaga
- Lorenzo Sumulong III
- Maria Trinidad Cafirma
- Philip Conrad Acop
- Nathaniel Lobigas
- Irvin Paulo Tapales
Chairman Garcia emphasized that the Comelec will be posting these COCs on its official website promptly to ensure transparency. "This is so that everyone can filter the candidates better and for the Comelec to at least find out if they're not telling the truth," he explained, underscoring the importance of public scrutiny in the electoral process.
Campaign Period Set to Begin with Expectations of a Vibrant but Civil Race
The election and campaign periods for the March 14 special polls are officially set to commence on Thursday. While Garcia anticipates that candidates will be enthusiastic in their campaigns, he does not foresee an intensely contentious battle. "We don't expect the battle to be intense but the candidates will be enthusiastic because they know each other well," he noted, adding, "We expect our campaign period to be vibrant."
Comelec Issues Reminders on Campaign Rules and Regulations
Despite the expected vibrancy, Chairman Garcia has issued a stern reminder to all candidates to strictly adhere to the rules and regulations governing the campaign period. He outlined several key prohibitions that candidates must observe:
- Giving away money or any form of bribery to voters.
- Posting oversized campaign materials outside of designated common poster areas.
- Using loud sound systems that disturb communities or organizing motorcades that could cause heavy traffic disruptions.
- Engaging in personal attacks or below-the-belt lines against fellow candidates or other individuals to mock or attract voter attention.
Garcia stressed that these measures are in place to ensure a fair and orderly electoral process, free from undue influence and public nuisance. The Comelec remains vigilant in monitoring compliance to uphold the integrity of the special elections in Antipolo City.
