Public has right to question delay in resolving Marcos DQ case – Philippine Bar Association

Comelec Commissioner Rowena Guanzon and former Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (File photos)

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) should “put to rest” the public unease caused by the delay in resolving the disqualification case filed against presidential candidate Ferdinand Marcos Jr., especially since it has gone past the standard processing period.

The Philippine Bar Association (PBA) made the call in a statement issued on Monday.

According to the PBA,  the Comelec has the prerogative to choose how to do its business, but the public is also within its rights to question any perceived delay in the settlement of a case, especially if it has already gone through the prescribed period.

“After all, if we can efficiently disqualify and remove candidates who lack the resources (money) to mount a national campaign and declare them ‘nuisances’, then we should apply the same speed to cases that involve other disqualifications,” the PBA said in its statement.

The PBA issued the statement amid the infighting in Comelec’s first division, specifically between Commissioners Rowena Guanzon and Aimee Ferolino, who is the ponente in the Marcos disqualification case.

Guanzon had alleged that an “influential and powerful senator” was behind the delay in the release of the resolution on the consolidated disqualification cases filed against Marcos. She said the delay was meant to defeat her vote as she was set to retire on Feb. 2

The delay had drawn much public criticism, the PBA said.

“The Rule of Law thrives on the public’s perception that processes are fair, transparent, and efficient. We trust that the Comelec will adhere to its Constitutional mandate to examine these matters carefully,” the PBA said.

“We are equally hopeful that it will take stock of the need to move expeditiously. A cautious public watches with trepidation. It is within the Commission’s power to place these worries to rest,” it added.

Earlier, Ferolino denied the accusations, explaining that the delay was merely because it was taking some time for her to review three consolidated cases.

Meanwhile, Guanzon said she would identify the senator involved in delaying the case once she had retired and received an assurance that the Senate would investigate the allegation.

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