A lawmaker from Bulacan refused to call the failure of recall elections against the province’s governor to push through as a defeat, saying it was a victory for those who supported it.
In a statement, Rep. Jonjon Mendoza said the recall campaign showed the enthusiasm of people who supported it and the lack of time to pursue it should be viewed not as a defeat.
“It is with some sadness that we received the decision of the Comelec (Commission on Elections) on the recall petition against Gov. Wilhelmino Sy-Alvarado,” said Mendoza in his statement.
“That there was a lack of time for the recall to prosper is still victory for 319,707 Bulakenos who bravely signed the petition despite threats, harassment and delays,” said the congressman.
“That we were able to reach this stage against an incumbent governor is a victory shared by all,” he added.
He said while the recall could not proceed because of lack of time, he noted that the Comelec did not rule on its merits, particularly the authenticity of the signatures in the petition.
He said dilatory tactics by the governor’s camp made the process doubly difficult.
“The fight for transparency and accountability continues. It is the driving force behind the recall petitioners and signatories,” said the statement.