Comelec set to file 30 disqualification cases vs BSKE candidates

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Thursday said that it is set to file on Sept. 29, at least 30 disqualification cases against various candidates of the 2023 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE).

“Makakapag-file siguro kami bukas [Friday] ng mga around 30 petitions to disqualify (we will probably be able to file  around 30 petitions to disqualify on Friday),” Comelec Director and head of Task Force Anti-Epal Nick Mendros said in a press conference.

“The determination of the basis for the filing of the petitions to disqualify [were] based on answers submitted by these respondents on the show-cause orders we have issued in the last two weeks,”

He explained that there are other petitions for disqualification, but the Commission on Elections would still have to furnace its copy to respondents.

Based on Comelec data as of September 27, a total of 2,857 show cause orders have been issued.

Of the total, 404 responses have so far been received, with the Commission saying that around 194 could develop into disqualification cases.

When asked how long the cases would take, Comelec Chairman George Garcia said he was confident the disqualification petitions can be resolved before Oct. 30, the day of the BSKE itself.

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He committed that Comelec would be able to raffle the disqualification cases to its respective divisions by Monday, Oct. 2, where the summons will then be issued. A summary proceeding will then be held.

“Sa isang linggo pwedeng makumpleto ‘yung submissions, at pwede na kaming magdesisyon sa second week of October. Almost sure ako na may desisyon ang Comelec bago mag Oct. 30,” explained Garcia.

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(The submissions can be completed in one week, and we can make a decision in the second week of October. I am almost sure that the Comelec will have a decision before Oct. 30.)

JPV