Comelec Anticipates COC Filing Surge

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD CITY – The Commission on Elections (Comelec)-Bacolod expects an influx of aspirants on the final day of filing Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) on Tuesday, October 8.

Comelec-Bacolod head Revo Sorbito, in a media interview, said one group with a complete slate plans to file their COCs on Tuesday.

Barangay Singcang-Airport Captain Caesar Distrito, spokesperson for Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez, said on Monday that the candidates under the Benitez-led Asenso Team will file their COCs on Tuesday after a Holy Mass at the San Sebastian Cathedral and a gathering with their supporters at the public plaza.

Distrito noted that the lineup is nearly complete, except for one final spot for a councilor. He shared that Benitez finalized the slate yesterday. “All those being considered are winnable and competent, thus he wants to have another day to decide,” Distrito added.

As of October 7, 11 candidates have filed their COCs. Of this number, nine are running for councilor, two for congressman, and none for mayor or vice mayor.

Transport leader Lilian Sembrano, head of the Kabakod Negros Transport Coalition Incorporated (KNETCO), filed her COC for councilor on Monday.

Sembrano stated it is crucial for the transport sector to have a representative on the city council to address their concerns and sentiments.

Last month, Sembrano and five other transport leaders were arrested and charged with disobedience to a person in authority following a transport protest in front of a hotel on Lacson Street. They were released after posting bail.

Most of the candidates who have filed their COCs are running as independents, according to Sorbito.

Aside from Sembrano, those who have filed COCs for congressman include former Mayor and Bacolod Representative Evelio “Bing” Leonardia, and former overseas Filipino worker (OFW) Eduard Gulmatico.

Candidates vying for a council seat include Christian John Weber, Barangay Pahanocoy Captain Yolanda Noble, Barangay Vista Alegre Captain Jose Maria Leandro Norberto De Leon, Kagawad Ernesto Yap, Ken Paolo Gilo, Kenneth Belario, former Diwa Party-list Representative Pete Pico, and Rico Villafuerte.