Comelec on guard for fake memo banning voters from casting ballot

By: Kimberlie Quitasol - 9 years ago

BAGUIO CITY — The Commission on Elections advised Baguio voters to ignore fake memorandums barring them from voting on May 9.

A Baguio voter received a memorandum, sealed in what appeared to be a Comelec envelope, which stopped her from voting or be penalized for election offenses.

The voter, Joy Damolo, immediately presented the letter to lawyer John Martin, Baguio election supervisor, on Sunday.

Martin believes other voters may have received similar mail.

The fake memorandum was dated April 23, and was signed by “Atty. Miguel P. Mejerito,” who was designated Legal Officer IV, a non-existent rank in the Comelec, Martin said.

The memorandum states: “Please be informed that your transfer as voter to the City of Baguio was canceled by the Committee on Election Affairs, Commission on Elections, Intramuros, Manila. In this regard you are hereby advised not to participate during the May 9, 2016 elections or else you will be held liable for election offense, imprisonment of two years without subject to probation. For strict compliance.”

Martin said Comelec does not have a Committee on Election Affairs.

He said the Comelec’s Election Regulation Board or municipal trial courts have jurisdiction over amending a voter’s registration information, and not its law department.

“I am afraid that there are others who may have received a similar letter. We do not want this to be a reason for people not to vote on Monday,” Martin said.

Martin urged registered voters who have received the same memorandum to inform his office.

Damolo, he said, was a registered voter and may vote on Monday. JE/rga