SC issues TROs on Comelec rulings disqualifying Poe

MANILA, Philippines – The Supreme Court (SC) on Monday afternoon granted presidential aspirant Sen. Grace Poe’s request and issued temporary restraining orders (TROs) stopping the Commission on Elections’ implementation of the cancelation of Poe’s candidacy.

SC Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno decided on the issuance of the two TROs against the poll body’s First and Second Divisions herself. The TROs are effective immediately.

The order also required the Comelec to comment on Poe’s petition within the non-extendible period of 10 days.

In a press briefing, SC Spokesperson Theodore Te also mentioned the oral arguments on Poe’s case is scheduled 2 p.m. of Jan. 19, 2016 at the new session hall of SC's main building, Manila.

Asked if the cases will be consolidated, Te said the high tribunal will hear the cases separately.

On Monday morning, Poe’s legal counsel formally asked the SC to reverse the Comelec’s decision to disqualify her by filing two separate petitions for certiorari or judicial review against the First and Second Divisions of the Comelec.