Comelec stops TV network tallies

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has ordered broadcast giants ABS-CBN and GMA 7 to stop conducting unofficial quick counts, but clarified that the networks could still report on the results of the May 14 polls, provided that they reveal their sources of information.

Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos said their education and information department has made representations with the networks, which are conducting their own unofficial quick counts.

He explained that these networks are not accredited by the poll body to conduct a quick count.

“We cannot prevent the media from reporting the results of the elections, but they should reveal their sources so as not to be accused of trending,” Abalos said.

He said that the public should be informed as to where the results came from for the sake of clarity and transparency.

“For example, if they would report on the results and they say that this was gathered in Pasay, then the public would not have the impression that a certain candidate is leading in other areas except for the place mentioned,” he said.

He also warned that the Comelec has the authority to cite media entities for contempt if they violate the instruction on quick counts.

Election lawyer Romulo Macalintal said that the most reliable source of information on the poll results would be the National Movement for Free Elections (Namfrel) because their data are based on official documents such as election returns.

“While it is not official, the results are based on official documents. These are based on election returns.  But TV stations, their results are not based on official documents,” Macalintal said.

He said that the Comelec has the right to impose sanctions on media outfits if their reports cause confusion among voters. – James Mananghaya