Comelec Affirms Jurisdiction Limitations on Proposed Charter Change through People’s Initiative

 

Comelec Clarifies Jurisdiction on Charter Change through People’s Initiative

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) clarified on Thursday that it currently lacks jurisdiction over the proposed Charter change (Cha-cha) through People’s Initiative (PI) as they have yet to receive any petition on the matter. Comelec Chairman George Garcia explained in a radio interview that their jurisdiction would commence once a petition is filed, at which point local Comelec offices would be tasked with verifying names and signatures. Garcia emphasized that Comelec's authority comes into play during an election period, specifically if a successful petition warrants the scheduling of a plebiscite. Responding to concerns about vote buying through the gathering of signatures, Garcia underscored that their jurisdiction would only apply during an established election period. The clarification comes amid claims that the additional PHP12 billion budget allocation for Comelec is intended to fund Cha-cha, an allegation that Comelec Chairman Garcia has denied. Additionally, there are reports of local government officials allegedly enticing constituents to sign the PI petition in exchange for financial aid.(PNA)