Comelec releases withdrawal form for PI signatures

MANILA, Philippines —  Withdrawal forms are now available for those intending to take back their signatures gathered in a signature drive by proponents of the people’s initiative (PI) to amend the 1987 Constitution.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) said the withdrawal forms may be obtained at its local offices.

The poll body ordered the distribution of withdrawal forms after being told by Sen. Ronald dela Rosa of the large number of people wishing to withdraw their signatures on PI petition forms.

“For purposes of recording such manifestations, the Commission hereby releases the Withdrawal Form of Signature in Signature Sheets/Petition for People’s Initiative,” the Comelec said.

It said accomplished withdrawal forms may be submitted to the office of the election officers.

The poll body, however, stressed that the acceptance of withdrawal forms is for recording purposes only and shall not be construed as a formal action on the signature sheets or petition for PI.

Comelec earlier issued a resolution suspending all proceedings related to the people’s initiative to amend the 1987 Constitution.

All the proceedings are suspended indefinitely pending a review of implementing rules and regulations governing PI. 

Meanwhile, Sen. Bong Go lamented the use of government assistance programs to mislead voters into signing petition for the people’s initiative.

At the Senate electoral reforms committee hearing on Tuesday on reports on alleged voters’ bribery, Go showed a sample form – with the header stating the intent of the petition covered – to mislead beneficiaries that they are signing up for government aid.

“It seems that government programs are being used for politics,” Go said. He took Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian to task to ensure that the Assistance for Individuals in Crisis Situations program is not used to attract signatures for Charter change.

“Government assistance should be given freely, without favor,” he said.