Special election of Iggy Arroyo’s replacement a waste, says poll watchdog

MANILA, Philippines—The planned special election in June for the congressional seat in Negros Occidental of the late Representative Ignacio “Iggy” Arroyo is “highly unconscionable” and a “total waste,” the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting  said Saturday.

In a statement, the election watchdog body said the special election in the fifth congressional district of Negros Occidental, scheduled on June 2, would be a “total waste” since the 2013 elections were less than a year away and would cost the public around P30 million.

“It is highly unconscionable, impractical, and senseless to hold elections for the position left vacant by the death of Rep. Iggy Arroyo. The PPCRV sess no public good or service for such special elections,” the group said.

The PPCRV said the filing of the certificates of candidacy for the 2013 elections would take place from October 1 to Octorber 5, 2012, or “barely four months” after scheduled special elections.

“The position, power and other perks that go with a congressional seat could just be used to promote the campaign of the one elected. A total waste!” the group said.

“The Comelec will have to spend about P30,000,000 to hold said special eelctions, including a needless drain on its manpower, a distraction to its attention and preparation for the 2013 May elections. A total waste!” it said.

The PPCRV also pointed out that the ban on public works projects will begin in February 2013 “so that whoever wins in the June 2, 2012 special elections cannot implement or even contract for any public works project that will benefit his/her constituents.”

“The PPCRV implores Congress to be sensitive to the real needs of the people and to the wise utilization of public funds,” the group said.

“During the hard times when making both ends meet is such a dilemna for the majority of Filipinos, we implore Congress and all our public officials to please cease and desist from highly partisan acts that benefit only politicians and some vested interests,” it said.

The PPCRV hopes, and still trusts in the authentic sense of service of our elected officials. Please do not disappoint the people who voted for you, the whole nation, too. God help us,” the group added.