Comelec junks DQ case vs Pichay

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has thrown out the disqualification case filed against Surigao del Sur first district Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr., who is seeking reelection.

The Comelec’s first division dismissed the petition of Rep. Romeo Momo Sr. of Construction Workers Solidarity party-list to disqualify Pichay after the Office of the Ombudsman ordered his perpetual disqualification from holding public office.

The ombudsman found Pichay guilty of grave misconduct over a questionable investment when he was head of the Local Water Utilities Administration.

“Pending the resolution of his appeal with the Supreme Court (SC), we cannot hold that the perpetual disqualification is effective against Pichay,” the Comelec resolution read.  “There was no false material representation when he declared that he was eligible to run for office.”

In a 40-page resolution released on Jan. 14, the SC denied Pichay’s petition to reverse his dismissal and perpetual disqualification from holding public office.

“I respect the decision of the SC. However, I am determined to exhaust all possible legal remedies accorded to me by law. This SC decision is not yet final and executory,” he said.