29/04/2026
COMELEC clarifies birth certificate not mandatory but may be required for candidate verification
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has clarified that while submitting a birth certificate is not strictly required for filing a Certificate of Candidacy (COC), candidates for the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections on November 2, 2026 may still be asked to provide one to verify key personal details.
In a statement released on April 28, COMELEC noted that questions about age, citizenship, and other qualifications have historically caused complications during elections. The Commission cited that nearly 7,000 cases related to eligibility issues were resolved during the 2018 Barangay and SK polls, with similar concerns arising again in the 2023 electionsโparticularly involving candidates exceeding the age limit for SK.
COMELEC Chairman George Garcia explained that the law does not prohibit the submission of birth certificates. However, he emphasized that such documents may be necessary to confirm information already declared in the COC, such as a candidateโs date of birth and citizenship.
โCandidates are asked about their age and birth details in the COC. It is only proper that these declarations can be supported by proof, such as a birth certificate,โ Garcia said.
The Commission stressed that the move is part of its broader effort to strengthen electoral integrity and prevent disputes over candidate qualifications. By encouraging additional documentation when needed, COMELEC aims to ensure that only eligible individuals run for public office and to protect voters from potential legal complications involving candidates.
COMELEC added that these measures are also intended to guide young aspirants, particularly SK candidates, in better understanding election laws and requirements.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to fair, orderly, and credible elections, assuring the public that policies are in place not only to enforce the law but also to safeguard the rights of both candidates and voters.