The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued a show-cause order (SCO) against Nueva Ecija gubernatorial aspirant Virgilio Bote over alleged discriminatory remarks he made during a campaign event, which may constitute a violation of election rules on fair and respectful campaigning.

The order stems from a video circulating online, where Bote was seen mocking the health condition of a political opponent, referencing their hospitalization due to a serious illness.

"Right now, my mayor’s opponent has no competition because their rival is in the hospital. I didn’t have them shot. They’re sick with — what is it again? Bypass, kidney, stage five cancer. Cancer too! That’s why they can’t campaign anymore. That’s why we’ve relaxed a bit,” he said in Filipino. 

The Comelec’s Task Force SAFE (Safeguarding Against Fear and Exclusion in Elections) flagged Bote’s comments as a possible violation of Resolution No. 11116, which outlines anti-discrimination and fair campaigning guidelines for the 2025 midterm elections.

Section 3 of the resolution explicitly prohibits discriminatory acts such as public ridicule and vilification of persons with disabilities (PWDs) — which includes mocking or imitating individuals with health conditions.

The Comelec also noted that such behavior goes against the principles of respectful and inclusive political discourse, especially when directed at health-related vulnerabilities.

Bote, who previously served as mayor of General Tinio, is running for governor of Nueva Ecija in the upcoming elections. His main rival in the race is Oyie Umali.

The Comelec has given Bote three days to respond to the show-cause order.