In the recent filing of candidacies, after candidates submit their Certificate of Candidacy (COC), they are required to take an oath.
But, is it really necessary for them to take an oath before their COC filing can be recognized?
The oath for a clean, honorable, and dignified campaign is not just a simple formality.
It’s a significant part of the election process, as stipulated by law.
It is a legal procedure that affirms their commitment to follow the law and acknowledges the responsibilities that come with public service.
This is included in Section 74 of Article 9 of the Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines.
It states that every candidate must take an oath to faithfully defend the Constitution and perform their duties with integrity and fairness if they are elected.
If a candidate doesn’t take this oath, their COC cannot be accepted by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).
In simpler terms, they won’t be considered legitimate candidates in the upcoming elections.
However, for the COC filing for the 2025 midterm elections, COMELEC has added new provisions to the oath.
It now prohibits the use of modern technology, such as artificial intelligence-generated tools, to spread misinformation, deceive, or undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
Additionally, candidates are required to register their official online campaign platforms so their activities on social media can be monitored.
Through this, COMELEC aims to ensure that no one will cheat or take advantage in the upcoming elections.
**VALERIE ANN DISMAYA