Five national candidates in the midterm elections have so far filed their Statements of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCEs), according to the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

As of Friday, 30 May, Comelec data showed that losing senatorial candidate and former executive secretary under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Vic Rodriguez, was the first to submit his SOCE on 23 May.

Rodriguez, who ran under the Duterte-led Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) senatorial slate, placed 23rd in the race for 12 available Senate seats.

Meanwhile, four party-list groups — Abante Pangasinan-Ilokano, Abono Partylist, 1-Pacman, and Partido Demokratiko Sosyalista ng Pilipinas — have also submitted their SOCEs.

All candidates, political parties, and party-list groups are required to file their SOCEs within 30 days from the date of the elections, or until 11 June.

In a previous press briefing, Comelec spokesperson Atty. Rex Laudiangco emphasized that the poll body will not extend the 11 June deadline.

"The Supreme Court has ruled several times that the Comelec has no power to change the deadline as it is provided by the law," Laudiangco said.

He also reminded winning candidates that they cannot assume office if they fail to submit their SOCEs.

"Even if you have taken your oath of office, you cannot assume office until you have proof of submitting your SOCE," the Comelec official said.

Failure to submit SOCEs may result in an administrative case.

"Their failure to file SOCE may result in fines for the first offense. For the second time, it can result in perpetual disqualification," he added.