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Pulse Asia reviewing Comelec resolution on survey firms
Pulse Asia said it was reviewing the Commission on Elections' resolution requiring survey firms conducting voter preference surveys ahead of Eleksyon 2025 to register with the Comelec.
Oculum Research said it would comply with the requirement as long as it was “mere registration.”
“As we adhere to the rule of law, we are currently reviewing the resolution considering our longstanding mission and our unwavering commitment to safeguarding and promoting our core liberties,” Pulse Asia said in a statement.
“If this is mere registration, the research team behind our survey will comply with the requirement,” Oculum Research board member Felipe Salvosa said.
OCTA Research has declined to comment on the matter.
Social Weather Stations (SWS) have yet to respond to GMA News Online's request for a statement as of posting time.
"During the election period, any person, whether natural or juridical, candidate, or organization that conducts and publicly disseminates an election survey must register with the Political Finance and Affairs Department (PFAD) of the Commission," the seven-page resolution read.
Survey firms that have already been conducting and disseminating election surveys before the publication of the resolution were given by the Comelec a grace period of 15 days from the date of effectivity to complete their registration.
"During this period, they may continue their operations, but failure to register within the prescribed time frame shall result in the suspension of their authority to conduct public elections surveys," it added.
Those conducting election surveys shall submit a comprehensive report to the Comelec through the PFAD within five days from the publication of the survey.
Candidates' spending on surveys
The total amount spent by candidates on such surveys should also be disclosed, if applicable. The poll body may use the data to verify the candidates' reported expenses in their Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE).
Meanwhile, broadcast media providers are required to only publish the surveys if they contain the name of the entity that conducted the survey, as well as the names of the person, candidate, party, or organization that commissioned or paid for the survey, if any.
This also applies to all survey firms publishing their materials online, including through social media platforms.
The Comelec warned that those who fail to comply with the disclosure or reporting requirements shall face strict penalties, which may include fines, suspension of accreditation, or even legal action.
The election period for the 2025 midterm elections started on January 12 and will be until June 11, 2025.
Meanwhile, the 90-day campaign period for the national candidates (senatorial candidates and party-list groups) kicked off on February 11 and will last until May 10. As for the local candidates, the 45-day campaign period will be from March 28 to May 10.
Election Day is on May 12, but overseas voters may cast their votes from April 13 to May 12, while local absentee voters may cast their votes from April 28 to 30. –NB, GMA Integrated News
For more Eleksyon 2025 related content and updates, visit GMA News Online's Eleksyon 2025 microsite.
