The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Sunday disclosed that it may overturn its earlier decision to withdraw the certificate of candidacy of Marikina Mayor Marcy Teodoro as the city’s First District Representative if the mayor can present new arguments or evidence in his motion for reconsideration.
Comelec chairperson George Erwin Garcia said that there have been instances in previous cases that the poll body reversed its decision based on compelling arguments or newly presented proof presented during an appeal.
“There were many incidents that after presenting arguments in the motion for reconsideration, the division can have a reversal,” Garcia said.
“That means, those in the division can change their minds. Maybe something just wasn’t enlightened or maybe there was evidence that wasn’t just presented, there could be a change,” he added.
Garcia also clarified that the Comelec’s 1st Division decision to disqualify Teodoro as a candidate is not yet final and executory and remains subject to a motion for reconsideration.
“Once filed, the poll body’s decision cannot be enforced. Therefore, if that is enough to print the ballot, Mayor Marcy’s name will be included in the ballot,” Garcia said.
Marikina City residents earlier expressed full support for Teodoro, saying they will remain on his side amid his legal debacle, believing the disqualification case is a politically motivated move by his rivals.