Ex-Mandaue mayor optimistic on TRO

MANDAUE CITY, Cebu — With the Supreme Court (SC) issuing temporary restraining orders (TROs) on the disqualification of five candidates in this year’s midterm elections, former Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes expressed optimism that he, too will be given the same benefit.

“We remain optimistic that this unwavering commitment to truth and justice will prevail, preserving the free and faithful expression of the people’s will,” Cortes told media.

He asked the SC to prevent the Commission on Elections (Comelec) from implementing the cancellation his Certificate of Candidacy.

During the Supreme Court en banc session on Tuesday, 14 January, the SC granted TRO to senatorial aspirant Subair Mustapha; Charles Savellano, who is seeking election as Representative in the First District of Ilocos; and Chito Bulatao Balintay, who is running for Zambales Governor.

TROs were also granted to Edgar Erice, who is running for Representative of Second District of Caloocan City, and Florendo Ritualo Jr., an aspirant for Sangguniang Panlungsod member in the First District of San Juan City.

Cortes said that these developments provide “ encouragement,” as they believe the High Court’s actions will help ensure that the Comelec decision to cancel the CoCs of some candidates, including his, do not compromise the integrity of the midterm elections.

He stressed that the recent SC’s rulings reflect a strong dedication to intervening when it was necessary to uphold justice and protect the will of the people.

Cortes filed a petition for Certiorari before the Supreme Court on 2 January after the Comelec denied the motion for reconsideration that he filed on its decision to cancel his CoC.