SC reverses Comelec ruling disqualifying Baguio mayoral bet

MANILA, Philippines — A mayoral candidate in Baguio City who was disqualified by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has been allowed to participate in the May 13 polls.

In a three-page resolution issued on April 11, the Supreme Court (SC) granted the petition of lawyer Edgar Avila to proceed with his candidacy pending the resolution of the case.

“A status quo ante order is issued effective immediately and continuing until further orders from this court,” the SC order read.

The order stopped the Comelec from implementing a resolution approved by the full commission on March 6 that disqualified Avila for using an old certificate of candidacy (COC) form.

The high tribunal also directed the Comelec to answer Avila’s petition and file its comment within 10 days from notice.

Chief Justice Lucas Bersamin issued the order upon the recommendation of Associate Justice Antonio Carpio.

The Comelec invalidated the candidacy of bets who used old forms in filing their COCs.

Old COC forms do not have Item 22, which asks candidates if they have been found guilty or have pending criminal or administrative cases.