Committee formed to probe election fraud

(We are reposting this story to correct the number of Comelec representatives in the joint committee. It should be two, not one—eds)

MANILA, Philippines—The Commission on Elections and the Department of Justice on Tuesday formally announced the creation of a joint committee that would investigate alleged anomalies in the 2004 general 2007 mid-term elections.

Speaking at a press briefing, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and Comelec Chairman Sixto Brillantes Jr. said the committee would be composed of three representatives from the DOJ and two from Comelec whose names would be announced on Wednesday. A DOJ representative will chair the committee.

De Lima also said she and Brillantes also discussed what to do with former and incumbent election officials and other government officials, including military and police officials, who have sent “feelers” that they want to testify.

“To be honest, I’m excited about this investigation. Very excited. This, I think, is a singular golden opportunity. We always talk about fraud, but nothing happens. Now, I think, let us not blow our chance at determining the truth,” she said.

De Lima said that after convening, the committee will formulate its rules, which would have to be approved by the DOJ and the Comelec. She said the proceedings would be “generally” open to the public and the Comelec and the DOJ offices might serve as alternating venues.

Brillantes said the rules will be out by next week.

The Comelec chief said the timeframe of the investigation would be up to the members of the committee. He said when the committee finds evidence or gets solid testimony about an irregularity, a case may be filed with the Comelec or the DOJ, depending on the nature of the offense.