Aquino says his first choice for Comelec chair declined

President Benigno Aquino III. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO/EDWIN BACASMAS

President Benigno Aquino III on Friday revealed that he already had someone in mind for the Commission on Election (Comelec) top post.

However, that person declined.

“The person basically said, ‘It seems I’m not cut out for that’,” Aquino said during an interview in Tarlac City.

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He said the person seemed hesitant, which is not something that he would want for a Comelec chairman.

“The presidential elections will be held next year and what we need is someone who is really interested and enthusiastic,” Aquino said.

Nevertheless, the President said he will soon interview another candidate who has a “very strong interest” in the position “and who has the credentials and the track record to do a good job.”

The Comelec is among the constitutional bodies that have remained headless since February. Even before former chairman Sixto Brillantes Jr. retired on February 2, Malacañang already assured the public that it has already been searching for his replacement. IDL

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