PET suspends VP poll recount in 2 precincts

MANILA, Philippines–There is no suspension of ballot recount in the poll protest of former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, sources from the Presidential Electoral Tribunal (PET) said Tuesday.

Sources privy to the deliberation said recount has been suspended only in two precincts–precinct 8 of Tanjay City, Negros Oriental and clustered precinct 42 in Barangay Sagbang, Valencia, Negros Oriental.

“[The suspension was] only as to precinct 8 of Tanjay City, Negros Oriental due to wet ballots and we instead directed head revisor to use decrypted ballot images,” the source said.

“Also suspended in clustered precinct 42 in Barangay Sagbang, Valencia, Negros Oriental because no election return is in ballot box,” the source said.

“Revision to proceed as to all other contested precincts,” the source said.

Other sources said also confirmed that the recount on the other contested precincts will push through despite reports of its indefinite suspension.

“Not true, fake news. Be careful with rumors,” another insider said.

Lawyers for both parties, however have the impression that the recount as a whole has been stopped.

“Yes, the PET made the announcement yesterday morning at around 9:30 am. at the Revision Floor and [the suspension is] effective until further notice as per PET,” Atty. Vic Rodriguez, Marcos’ spokesman said in a text message.

Marcos’ counsel, Atty. George Garcia also confirmed the indefinite suspension and added that no reason was given to them.

Atty. Beng Sardillo, counsel for Vice President Leni Robredo also confirmed Garcia’s statement.

“The revisors were advised yesterday that the revision will be suspended. PET did not give then any reason for the suspension,” Sardillo said.  /muf