Castillano, others in shuffle of poll chiefs

A new Commission on Elections (Comelec) supervisor will be appointed in Cebu as part of the reshuffling of election officers throughout the country in time for the election period which begins on Jan. 13.

Comelec provincial supervisor Marco Lionel Castillano will be transferred to Bohol starting Jan. 21.

Replacing him in Cebu is Negros Oriental election supervisor Eddie Aba.

“That is made to prevent familiarity with local government officials. We welcome it. As a good soldier, we will follow. It may be an inconvenience to our family but this is just for the election,” Castillano said.

He described Aba as a “competent person and good lawyer.” Aside from Castillano, Comelec-7 Asst. Regional Director Veronico Petalcorin will also move to Region 8 or Eastern Visayas.

Lawyer Efraim Bag-id from the legal department of the Comelec central office will take over Petalcorin’s place.

Bohol election supervisor Eliseo Labaria will move to Siquijor to replace election supervisor Leandro Magusara, who’ll be transferred to Negros Oriental. Comelec 7 Regional Director Timie Lambino will remain at his post.

A total gun ban will be implemented across the country starting Jan. 13 until June 12. “The total gun ban is intended to prevent the use of firearms to intimidate voters or help politicians,” Castillano said.

He said only soldiers, Comelec officials, the National Bureau of Investigation, prosecutors, and judges are allowed to carry a licensed firearm during the elections.

Those found guilty of violating the election gun ban will be meted an imprisonment of up to six years. The penalty carries a penalty of “perpetual disqualification from public office.” Reporter Ador Vincent Mayol