GARCIA DISCLOSES 15+ POSSIBLE PLAYERS, BSKE DELAY, ANTI-DYNASTY PUSH AT KAPIHAN SA MANILA BAY
By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is widening its investigation into the alleged pre-shading of around 16,000 ballots in Maluso, Basilan, with Chairman George Erwin Garcia saying more than 15 people may have been involved.
Speaking at the Kapihan sa Manila Bay on Wednesday, Garcia said the Comelec had issued 16 subpoenas to individuals who may have information about the incident, including the provincial election supervisor, Maluso election officer, municipal treasurer and mayor.
Garcia stressed that the subpoenas do not mean those summoned are guilty. The Comelec wants their explanations and information on what they knew about the tampered ballots.
He said the scale of the alleged operation made it unlikely that a single person could have marked thousands of ballots. Those eventually found responsible could face electoral sabotage charges.
Garcia also addressed the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections, saying the Comelec has to comply with the law postponing the polls to 2028. He said the commission cannot simply proceed with preparations for an election that has already been moved by legislation.
The postponement means the Comelec must redirect its preparations and resources toward the next election cycle while ensuring that the electoral system remains ready for the eventual conduct of the BSKE.
Garcia also called on Congress to act on legislation against political dynasties, saying the Comelec wants the measure passed before the end of 2026. An early enactment would give the poll body time to study the law and prepare the rules and mechanisms needed for its implementation.
Among the issues requiring legislative clarity are the scope of the proposed prohibition and which elective or appointive positions would be covered.
The Comelec aims to resolve the Maluso ballot investigation before the next filing of Certificates of Candidacy (COCs).
ia/xf
