The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has reversed its earlier decision to suspend the proclamation of Atty. Jeryll Harold Respicio as the vice mayor-elect of Reina Mercedes, Isabela, allowing him to assume office even as legal proceedings over his controversial online remarks continue.

In a two-page decision dated 2 June 2025, the Comelec First Division rescinded its 12 May order that had delayed Respicio’s proclamation.

"The Order of the Commission (First Division) dated 12 May 2025, insofar as the Respondent Jeryll Harold Paz Respicio is concerned, is hereby lifted, effective immediately," the ruling read.

Respicio came under public scrutiny in May after posting videos on Facebook alleging the existence of a program capable of tampering with election results. In response, the Comelec filed charges under Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code, in relation to the Cybercrime Prevention Act, accusing him of spreading false information that could disrupt public order.

Despite the pending charges, the poll body ordered the Reina Mercedes Municipal Board of Canvassers to reconvene and finalize Respicio’s proclamation within five days.

Before the reversal, Respicio had petitioned the Supreme Court, questioning the legality of the suspension and claiming it lacked constitutional and legal basis.