Comelec disqualifies Legazpi Mayor Rosal, Garbin takes over

Bicol (CNN Philippines, May 4) — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Thursday upheld a division ruling disqualifying Legazpi City Mayor Geraldine Rosal for her involvement in a cash assistance payout that coincided with the 45-day election spending ban last year.

The poll body's Second Division ruled in October last year to disqualify Rosal after a petitioner alleged she released cash aid to tricycle drivers and senior citizens during the campaign period, which could be considered vote buying, and a violation of the spending ban.

She now shares the same fate as her husband Noel Rosal, who was also disqualified as governor after being involved in the same cash aid distribution.

Rosal will be replaced by Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Alfredo Garbin Jr., who placed second in the 2022 mayoral race.

Rosal beat Garbin by only 550 votes, which Garbin protested.

The Rosals have yet to comment on the matter.

With reports from Bicol-based journalist Rosas Olarte