Imelda Papin questions disqualification

MANILA, Philippines - Insisting that she is a resident of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, singer Imelda Papin yesterday questioned a Commission on Elections (Comelec) ruling disqualifying her from the congressional race. 

In a motion for reconsideration, Papin said the Comelec “seriously erred” when it gave credence to the disqualification case filed against her by Arangkada San Joseno party secretary-general Zosimo Lorenzo.

 Lorenzo said Papin was a resident of Barangay Pasong Putik, North Fairview, Quezon City and not of Barangay San Manuel in San Jose del Monte as she claimed.

Papin said the Comelec also failed to “correctly appreciate” the documentary evidence that she submitted, including the pictures during the blessing of her house in San Jose del Monte City.

She said she had lived in the Bulacan city since 2002 but sold her house in 2009 when she ran for senator. She said she could be considered a “returning resident.”

Papin said it was wrong for the Comelec to pass on to her the “burden of proof” that she is not a resident of San Jose del Monte City.