MANILA, Philippines, December 11, 2024.
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) reported a significant uptick in the number of candidates registering for the 2024 elections, with a total of 7,301 registration forms submitted online as of 6:58 p.m. on December 11. The numbers reflect the growing enthusiasm and competition across the country as Filipinos prepare to vote for their next leaders.
Among the registered aspirants, 43 individuals are in the race for the Senate, aiming for one of the 12 available seats. These candidates include a mix of well-known politicians, celebrities, and newcomers, all vying for the chance to shape the country’s national policies. The highly competitive field highlights the increasing political engagement as the Senate race heats up.
The local elections are also seeing a surge, with 7,085 candidates aiming for various local positions, from barangay officials to mayors, governors, and congresspersons. Local governance remains a priority for many voters, and the large number of candidates underscores the importance of grassroots leadership in addressing local issues.
Additionally, a record 174 party-list groups have registered, representing a diverse range of sectors from labor and women’s groups to indigenous communities and environmental advocates. These organizations are seeking to secure a place in the House of Representatives, aiming to give marginalized sectors a stronger voice in the legislature.
The online registration process, facilitated through platforms like Google Forms, has made it easier for candidates from across the country to participate. However, the process also required candidates to submit hard copy documents to complete their registration. As of December 11, 3,312 candidates had already submitted the required paperwork. Notably, 53 private individuals had submitted their hard copies even before the publication of COMELEC Resolution No. 11064-A, which amended certain requirements related to document submission.
COMELEC Resolution No. 11064-A, issued earlier this year, updated guidelines for candidates submitting their registration documents, affecting the timeline and procedures for filing. The resolution aimed to streamline the registration process and ensure that all candidates meet the legal requirements to run for office.
With the registration period drawing to a close, COMELEC offices are working tirelessly to process the vast number of applications. As the official campaign period approaches, the political climate is set to intensify, with voters soon deciding who will lead the country and represent them in local and national government.
The 2024 elections are shaping up to be one of the most competitive and dynamic in recent years, with over 7,000 candidates now in the running. As the race progresses, it is clear that this election season will be one of the most closely watched in Philippine history.
