DQ filed vs Chiz Escudero, partymates

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero is facing possible disqualification from the Sorsogon gubernatorial race for allegedly violating election regulations.

Cause-oriented group Bayan at Mamamayan (BM) on Friday filed with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) a petition seeking the disqualification not only of Escudero, but also of his partymates Mayor Manuel Fortes, Rep. Evelina Escudero and congressional aspirant Ditas Ramos of the Nationalist People Coalition (NPC).

The group accused Escudero and his companions of donating P50,000 to the Our Lady of Peñafrancia Seminary (OLPS) as payment for the use of the church’s premises in a proclamation rally.

BM convenor Revor Lasay said the law prohibits giving donations during the campaign period.

Lasay said the diocese of Sorsogon has admitted the OLPS received a rental payment from the NPC.

“Since the OLPS does not have any business permit and no official receipt to issue for the use of its premises, the amount given by Escudero is a form of donation,” Lasay said.

He said before the March 31 rally, he asked Sorsogon Bishop Arturo Bastes to withdraw any agreement the diocese may have entered into with Escudero or the NPC, saying the event would undermine the independence of the church.