Context of the Marcoleta SOCE caseThe case dates to November 2025, when Marcoleta appeared on his Net25 program and was asked about a mismatch in his campaign finances. The official campaign period for national candidates did not begin until February 11. The Peñera doctrine, and all about 'timing'Marcoleta's defense rests on a 2009 Supreme Court ruling that had nothing to do with declaring campaign donations. Monica, Surigao del Norte, was penalized for holding a motorcade the day before the local campaign period began. "It's a prerequisite that he be a candidate," Bulay said on Storycon on Wednesday.

Source: Philippine Star March 19, 2026 07:31 UTC