Congress ready for canvass, says JDV

Seven congressmen named to the National Board of Canvassers are ready for Monday’s counting of the votes for president and vice president when Congress convenes in joint session for that purpose, Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. said yesterday.

De Venecia said the seven-member House contingent will be headed by Deputy Speaker for the Visayas Raul Gonzalez with Representatives Eduardo Nachura, Florencio Abad, Prospero Nograles Jr., Salacnib Baterina, Marcelino Libanan and Bellaflor Angara-Castillo as members.

"We are now ready to convene the National Canvassing Board jointly with the Senate," he said.

De Venecia assured the nation, particularly the opposition, that the proceedings will not be railroaded since this will be open to the public.

"We will not railroad any part of the proceedings nor will we allow any undue delays or derailment of the national canvass," he said.

"We owe it to the people. We will do our constitutional duties."

De Venecia said the Senate contingent will be appointed by Senate President Franklin Drilon.

He and Drilon will have a final meeting on the matter on Saturday, he added.

House Majority Leader Neptali Gonzales II, the newly proclaimed mayor of Mandaluyong City, was designated to "steer the floor proceedings," with the help of Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay.

Among other lawmakers on call for the national canvassing of votes are Representatives Constantino Jaraula, Agapito Aquino and Rolex Suplico.

House Secretary General Roberto Nazareno said Congress is to check about 164 certificates of canvass, 62 of which came from overseas voters, while the rest will be from provinces and cities nationwide.

Retired general Bayani Fabic, House sergeant-at-arms, said the ballots will be deposited inside the session hall in full view.

Security will be backed up by Quezon City policemen, he added.