The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is set to enforce strict monitoring of campaign spending in the upcoming May 12, 2025, elections.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo, Mr. Jonathan Sayno, Election Assistant II of COMELEC-Iloilo City, emphasized that the poll body would closely oversee the contributions and expenses of candidates during the election period.
Sayno noted that they may also seek assistance from election watchdogs to help monitor campaign expenses and verify the documents submitted by winning and losing candidates after the elections, specifically related to their actual campaign expenditures.
According to election rules, all candidates are required to submit their Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE) within 30 days after the elections.
Failure to comply with this requirement may prevent a winning candidate from assuming office and may result in administrative charges and fines of up to P30,000.
For candidates running for positions in the Senate, Congress, and other local offices, those registered under a political party are allowed to spend only P3 per registered voter.
Meanwhile, independent candidates who do not have political party support are permitted to spend up to P5 per registered voter.
