Comelec upholds disqualification of Legazpi councilor Barizo as candidate in 2022 polls

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) — The Commission of Elections (Comelec) en banc has upheld its second division's resolution to disqualify Legazpi City, Albay Councilor Al Barizo as a candidate in the 2022 elections.

In a statement on Thursday, the Comelec en banc said the instant motion for partial reconsideration "neither contains any new matters or issues, nor was it able to establish that the assailed resolution was based on insufficient evidence, or that the same is contrary to law."

In a news conference, Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco said Barizo has already received a copy of the resolution.

"Sa loob ng limang araw, dahil natanggap niya na ito, kapag walang natanggap ang Comelec ng temporary restraining order mula sa ating kataas-tasaang hukuman ay agad nang mag-i-issue ng certificate of finality at entry of judgment ang ating Clerk of the Commission at mag-i-issue na rin ng writ of execution para i-implement ang desisyon para i-disqualify siya," he said.

[Translation: Within five days, since he already received it, if the Comelec does not receive a temporary restraining order from the Supreme Court, the Clerk of the Commission will issue a certificate of finality and an entry of judgment, as well as a writ of execution to implement the disqualification decision.]

In May, the poll body's second division disqualified Barizo for allegedly taking part in a two-day Tricycle Drivers' Cash Assistance Payout during the 2022 campaign period. 

It said Barizo was found liable for violating the Omnibus Election Code, which prohibits the release, disbursement, or expenditure of public funds by a public official 45 days before election day.

Former Albay Gov. Noel Rosal and Legazpi Mayor Geraldine Rosal, the party-mates of Barizo, were earlier disqualified for their involvement in the same cash aid distribution.