Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is considering the online publication of the statements of contributions and expenditures (SOCEs) submitted by candidates, party-list groups, and political parties for public scrutiny.

According to Philippines News Agency, Comelec Chairperson George Garcia communicated via Viber that the SOCEs might be made available online in approximately two weeks, pending the approval of the Department of Information and Communications Technology to conduct a vulnerability assessment. Garcia emphasized the importance of public oversight, encouraging citizens to report any discrepancies or omissions to Comelec's Political and Finance Affairs Department for prompt investigation.

Candidates, party-list groups, and political parties that took part in the May 12 midterm elections are required to submit their SOCEs by June 11. Comelec data as of 8 a.m. shows that 25 senatorial candidates, 10 political parties, and 64 party-list groups have already submitted their SOCEs. A total of 64 senatorial candidates, 28 political parties, and 154 party-list groups participated in the elections.

The law mandates that SOCEs be filed within 30 days following the elections. Garcia warned that failing to file SOCEs for two consecutive elections could lead to perpetual disqualification from holding public office. This disqualification extends to both appointive and elective positions unless clemency or pardon is granted by the president.

In addition to administrative consequences, those who fail to file their SOCEs may also face criminal charges. Garcia noted that failure to file is considered a criminal offense that must be addressed by the Law Department, and first-time offenders are subject to an administrative fine.