Ex-Albay governor disqualified from running in 2025 polls

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has disqualified a former governor in Albay from running in the 2025 midterm elections.

The disqualification of Noel Rosal was due to his dismissal from public service in 2022, according to the Comelec’s Second Division.

The poll body cited Section 40(b) of the Local Government Code, which disqualifies any person, who was removed from office as a result of an administrative case, from seeking an elective post.

The Comelec granted a petition filed by Josefino Dioquino, who said Rosal should be disqualified from running in the 2025 midterm elections due to his dismissal by the Office of the Ombudsman.

Rosal has appealed the ombudsman’s decision.

The Comelec said the ombudsman found Rosal guilty of grave misconduct, oppression and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.

The poll body said the decision of the ombudsman is immediately executory and could not be stopped by any appeal. 

In October, Rosal filed a certificate of candidacy for governor.