Gutoc explains misplaced indelible ink

MANILA, Philippines — Maranao leader and senatorial candidate Samira Gutoc said Ramadan fasting might have something to do with the indelible ink mistakenly being put on her right thumb instead of her forefinger.

Taking to social media, Gutoc uploaded a video explaining the situation while also thanking her supporters.

"Eh kasi syempre fasting yung nag-ano sa akin di baka na-nervous siya, yung BEI (Board of Election Inspectors), kung saan niya ilalagay yung ink. So she put it here. So, you know, no biggie diba," Gutoc said in the video uploaded on her Facebook page.

(Of course, the BEI who put the indelible ink is fasting. Maybe she was nervous about where to put the ink. So she put it here. So you know, no biggie, right?)

During the Islamic holy month of Ramadan Muslims fast and abstain from eating or drinking, even water, from dawn until dusk. Ramadan is believed to be the month when the prophet Mohammed received from God the first verses of the Quran.

Comelec Resolution 10460 states that the indelible ink should be applied on a voter's right forefinger nail, except in cases where the voter has no nail on his or her right forefinger.

Gutoc's photo became viral after the Senate candidate's critics pointed out the discrepancy.

Despite dwindling hopes of getting into the Magic 12, Gutoc expressed her gratitude to everyone who had supported her campaign.

"To everyone who helped me, who voted for me, thank you talaga. I cannot say the immense, gigantic thank you sa lahat. Saludo po sa Pilipinas," Gutoc said.

(To everyone who helped me, who voted for me, thank you so much. I can't say the immense gigantic thank you to everyone. I salute the Philippines.)

On Tuesday morning, Gutoc conceded in the Senate race.

"It would’ve been an honor working for all of you. Thank you for giving me the chance," she tweeted.

It would’ve been an honor working for all of you. Thank you for giving me the chance.

— Samira Gutoc (@SamiraGutoc) May 14, 2019