By Benjamin Pulta
MANILA – The Supreme Court (SC) has reversed a Commission on Elections (Comelec) resolution disqualifying a substitute candidate for vice mayor of Limay, Bataan in the 2025 midterm elections.
In a press briefer on Wednesday, the SC said it granted Marie Grace David’s petition during its full court session on Tuesday.
It said the “the Comelec committed grave abuse of discretion by disallowing the substitution of Marie Grace, finding that Marie Grace fully complied with the requirements of Section 77 of the Omnibus Election Code, and hence, is a bona fide candidate for the position of Vice Mayor of Limay, Bataan.”
On Dec. 6, 2024, Richie Jason David withdrew his certificate of candidacy (COC) for vice mayor of Limay, Bataan.
Following her nomination as his substitute under the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, Marie Grace filed her COC and Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance (CONA).
She also filed a petition for substitution and inclusion in the Official List of Candidates/Ballots before the Comelec.
On Jan. 6, 2025, the Comelec denied Marie Grace’s substitution, ruling that she failed to file her COC and CONA within the prescribed period under Sec. 59 of Comelec Resolution No. 11045.
David elevated her case to the SC, and on Jan. 14, the tribunal issued a temporary restraining order preventing the Comelec from implementing its resolution.
The SC permanently prohibited the Comelec en banc from implementing its assailed resolution in its March 4 decision. (PNA)
