By JEN BAYLON

The first day of filing of certificates of candidacy (COCs) for the 2025 midterm elections was “peaceful,” the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) said yesterday.

NOCPPO spokesperson, Police Captain Wilma Silva, said they have conducted proactive measures to ensure peace and order in venues where aspiring candidates will be filing their COCs.

“We prioritized maintaining a secure environment during the filing process,” Silva said.

She noted that there are no areas in the province that are classified as election hotspots at this time.

Earlier, more than 700 NOCPPO officers were deployed throughout Negros Occidental for COC filing, which started yesterday until October 8.

NOCPPO director, Colonel Rainerio de Chavez emphasized their ongoing commitment to security, stating that they will continue to monitor and conduct threat assessments for local candidates in the upcoming elections.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Negros Occidental has set up locations for COC filing, ensuring the process runs smoothly as aspirants formalize their bids for office.

Candidates seeking positions at local levels are expected to submit their COC during the period.

The provincial poll body also reminded candidates to submit five duly accomplished and notarized copies of their COC, along with the original Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance (CONA) for those running under a political party.

Independent candidates are not required to submit their CONA./JB, WDJ