Bogo mayoral bet to sue BEIs

CEBU, Philippines - The camp of Bogo City mayoral candidate Daphne Salimbangon is set to file charges against the Board of Election Inspectors of Barangay Gairan.

Supporters of Salimbangon were complaining about the policy imposed by the BEI of Cluster 8 composed of Rosalinda Ortega, Ma. Liza Umpad and Mercy Balezuela.

Salimbangon’s camp suspected that those names called ahead were supporters of her opponent,  reelectionist Mayor Celestino “Junie” Martinez Jr.

The Commission on Elections imposed a first come, first served policy and without priority numbering.

But Ortega insisted of calling names from the list instead of allowing those in line to get inside the polling precinct and cast votes.

“Gahi kaayo na og ulo maestraha,” said lawyer Delon Richel Ramon Urot.

Urot instructed Salimbangon’s poll watchers to ask the BEIs to put on record what they have done.

Urot explained that calling somebody to cast votes will only apply when the polling places are to be closed to allow those within the prescribed distance to vote.

Martinez’s son, congressional candidate Celestino “Tining” Martinez III, defended the act of the BEIs.

He said they don’t want the people to wait for their turn under the heat of the sun but Tining agreed that the voters should fall in line and take turns in voting.  (FREEMAN)