Comelec chief willing to face inquiry on poll automation

MANILA, Philippines — Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Erwin Garcia is willing to face any investigation by the House of Representatives regarding the alleged bribery and corruption issues thrown against him.

Garcia said he is in favor of a congressional probe into his alleged offshore bank accounts and supposed deposits from South Korea so he could defend himself properly.

“I am very much willing to face an investigation, wherever it may be, even in the Lower House, so we can have an opportunity to explain everything. I will answer all questions in the proper forum. They say they want a hearing. Sure, I am OK with any hearing,” Garcia said.

He said he is looking forward to being asked about people behind the supposed demolition job against him, the Comelec, Seoul-based Miru Systems and the 2025 poll automation deal.

Earlier, Garcia said the allegations of SAGIP party-list Rep. Rodante Marcoleta and those of former congressman Edgar Erice are part of a massive demolition job to discredit the Comelec-Miru contract.

Garcia issued the statement in response to Marcoleta’s House Resolution 1827, which calls for an investigation into alleged bribery involving Comelec officials and Miru Systems.

Marcoleta said Garcia has offshore bank accounts and is conspiring with Miru concerning the poll automation deal.

Garcia said his denial on this matter is supported by statements and affidavits made under oath.

“Until earlier today, there has been no accusations put under oath. That is my challenge: put your allegations under oath. That is actually (a) basic (principle),” he said.

Garcia said he would not resign from his post even as Marcoleta demanded it.
In filing HR 1827, Marcoleta urged appropriate House committees to investigate the “alleged deposits made to several offshore bank accounts” of a Comelec official for purposes of holding him liable for violation of the Anti-Graft and Corruption Practices Act.

Marcoleta stressed the need to verify the offshore bank transactions in view of the poll body’s approval and awarding of contract to Miru Systems Co. Ltd.

Miru was awarded by the Garcia-led Comelec with an P18-billion deal for the automated election system that will be used for next year’s midterm polls.

“It is necessary to conduct an inquiry on the alarming allegations, as well as against Miru and its local partners, which, if found accurate, may constitute criminal offenses under the Constitution as well as other applicable laws and regulations governing government officials,” he said.

Marcoleta accused Garcia of having 49 offshore accounts, 22 of which have “already been closed as of June 25.” – Delon Porcalla