Manila: Political groups interested in becoming dominant majority or minority parties, as well as major national or local parties, for next year’s midterm elections have until early 2025 to apply before the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

According to Philippines News Agency, based on Resolution No. 11084 made public Wednesday, the poll body set the deadline for application on Jan. 10, 2025. “A political party duly registered with the Commission may file a verified petition for accreditation for the determination of the Dominant Majority Party, the Dominant Minority Party, the 10 Major National Parties, and the 2 Major Local Parties,” the resolution stated.

The petitions can be filed either personally at the Office of the Clerk of the Commission at the central office in Intramuros, Manila, or via email at [email protected]. It is required that petitions must be submitted in four hard copies of the form, along with complete annexes.

The Comelec emphasized that accredited parties will be entitled to one o
fficial watcher in every polling place and canvassing center. These parties will also receive copies of election returns and certificates of canvass.

In deciding on the dominant majority or minority parties and major national or local parties, the Comelec will determine the weighted average points of each applicant. The criteria include the party’s history of fielding a complete slate of candidates (10 points), number of incumbent elective officials (20 points), organizational structure (20 points), ability to field a complete slate of candidates from the municipal level up to senators (40 points), and having at least 30 percent of women candidates (10 points).