[WATCH] Behind the scenes: The COC waiting game at Sofitel

As in previous elections, the media is eagerly awaiting candidates who are filing their certificates of candidacy (COC) for national positions at a Commission of Elections (Comelec) venue in Pasay City.

This COC filing, however, the first big election-related event to take place ahead of May 9, 2022, looks vastly different from those of previous years. It’s a preview of what to expect of the first election in Philippine history to be held amid a pandemic.

The Comelec has outlined special safety guidelines and protocols for their staff, the media in the venue, as well as those filing for candidacy from October 1 to 8 at the Harbor Garden tent of Sofitel to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19.

What does a pandemic-era election look like? Rappler’s Dwight de Leon and Jairo Bolledo show us around and take us outside the COC filing venue. – Rappler.com