Manila, Philippines – The Supreme Court (SC) overturned a Commission on Elections (Comelec) decision that barred Chito Bulatao Balintay, an indigenous Zambales resident, from running for governor in the 2025 midterm elections.
The SC ruled on Tuesday that the Comelec’s rejection of Balintay’s candidacy, due to minor filing irregularities, constituted grave abuse of discretion. Balintay submitted his Certificate of Candidacy (COC) just 25 minutes before the deadline but was initially rejected for missing a copy and documentary stamps. While he attempted to rectify the situation, he was three minutes late returning the completed documents.
The SC acknowledged Comelec Resolution No. 11045, which dictates that incomplete COCs are not accepted, even if submitted on time. However, the court emphasized that elections are not conducted in ideal conditions and that the Comelec should be flexible in handling unforeseen circumstances that could disenfranchise voters. The court urged the Comelec to review its rules to ensure they serve justice and fair play.
The SC’s decision follows a January 14 temporary restraining order that prevented the enforcement of the Comelec’s initial rejection. The court has now directed the Comelec to accept Balintay’s COC and include his name on the official ballot.
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