By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia said on Wednesday (May 15, 2025) that no one has filed to cancel the candidacy of Bamban Mayor Alice Guo.
In a radio interview, Garcia explained that Comelec cannot unilaterally cancel a candidate’s candidacy based on citizenship unless a registered voter files for such action.
“The issues of age, citizenship, residency, voter registration, and literacy—whether you can read and write—are qualifications that Comelec cannot question on its own. A registered voter must file for disqualification or cancellation of candidacy,” Garcia said.
“In her case, no one has filed for cancellation of her candidacy,” he added.
Guo is currently under scrutiny in the Senate regarding her identity and citizenship.
Meanwhile, Garcia urged the public to be vigilant about the identity of candidates.
“Citizens in any locality should be alert. Even political opponents should be vigilant—are they truly qualified? Are they really from here? Are they genuinely citizens of the Philippines?” the Comelec official said.
Garcia also clarified that the citizenship and residency of a candidate are ongoing qualifications.
(el Amigo/MNM)
