Comelec tells Soco: We cannot stop Suroy-Suroy; Why not join instead

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) told vice gubernatorial candidate Glenn Soco that they cannot stop the Suroy-Suroy Sugbo program.

In response to Soco’s letter asking the Comelec to stop the tourism program in Camotes Island on April 27-29 is premature according to Cebu Comelec Supervisor Eddie Aba.

“Whether or not the activity might be using public funds for the campaigning of the candidates under Magpale, then that is merely speculative. We don’t know yet what will happen,” he said.

Aba said Soco can file a formal complaint to the Comelec if he can prove that Magpale indeed used the tour to advance her personal interests.

“If that will happen, he has all the right to file a complaint in this office but to restrain it now, we have no jurisdiction over that,” said Aba.

Aba instead urged Soco to join the tourism event and maintain friendship with Magpale.

“At least, we can still see rivals in politics who would choose to go on tour together,” said Aba.

Magpale said she is still unsure if she can join the tourism event because of their hectic campaign schedule.

But added, Soco can join provided he pays.

According to a Capitol tourism official, Suroy-Suroy Sugbo will be apolitical.

“Dili mi mo-allow og campaign if ever naay mo-uban,” Paulino said.

(We won’t allow campaigning if some politicians join.)

She added that Suroy-Suroy is open to everybody “but we prohibit speeches and giving of materials.”/with Correspondent Tweeny M. Malinao