Comelec affirms: Corro is mayor

CEBU, Philippines - Augusto Corro said yesterday he will not “frustrate” the will of the people of Daanbantayan by letting archrival Sun Shimura continue sitting as mayor.

“The people of Daanbantayan already had enough of the Loots trying to hold on to power without the mandate of the people. The people of Daanbantayan had enough of the Loots’ sowing of terror just to perpetuate themselves in power, which was clearly denied by the people,” Corro said yesterday.

The Commission on Elections en banc has affirmed its earlier decision by denying the motion for reconsideration filed by Shimura and his mother, Daanbantayan Vice Mayor Ma. Luisa Loot, on an earlier ruling that declared Corro as the real winner in the 2007 mayoralty race in Daanbantayan.

“They cannot deny the truth anymore that they have cheated the people of Daanbantayan… I will fulfill that will and assume the office of the mayor now that it has been clearly decided by the court, and twice by the Comelec.” Corro said.

Yesterday, the sheriff served the Comelec resolution, which denied Shimura’s motion for reconsideration, but clarified only a writ of execution can allow Corro to formally take over the municipal hall.

Shimura said they will fight the matter to the Supreme Court and said he is confident that his supporters won’t allow a takeover.

“Try taking over sa City Hall ug dili ba siya mabuk-an ug ulo sa mga tawo…” Shimura said in jest.

Meanwhile, Corro appealed to Sr. Supt. Vicente Loot, deputy regional director for operations, not to use his influence, more so, force and intimidation in favor of his stepson. Shimura, for his part, said Corro should not make such insinuations. 

“Ka-baga gud ana niya,” Shimura said. — THE FREEMAN