Comelec to schedule special polls in Compostela Valley village

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — The Commission on Elections here on Tuesday said it was not possible to forgo special elections in a village in Compostela Valley province in Mindanao, whose ballots were switched with those of Baguio City in Northern Luzon, because it would affect the standing of the contending mayoral candidates in that town.

Comelec Chairman Sixto Brillantes earlier said the body might forgo special elections in areas where the ballots were interchanged, because that would entail a lot of money, but regional director William Jay Balisado said this could only be possible if the results would not affect the standing of the contending political candidates in the local race.

“I have checked with the election supervisor and I learned it would have an impact on the standing, so, we need a special election,” Balisado said.

He, however, said there was no need to hurry as long as people will be properly informed to give them time to go back to their town to prepare.

“If the ballots … arrive tomorrow (Wednesday), we can schedule the special elections on Friday,” Balisado said.