Comelec disqualifies Cagayan governor anew

MANILA, Philippines —  For the second time, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has disqualified Cagayan Gov. Manuel Mamba in connection with the May 2022 general elections.

The ruling of the poll body’s First Division rendered the gubernatorial seat vacant and will be automatically filled by the vice governor following the law on succession, Comelec Chairman George Garcia said.

There are two disqualification cases filed against Mamba, Garcia clarified.

In the first case, the Comelec ruled to disqualify Mamba, but the Supreme Court recently reversed the decision.

In a decision released last night, the Comelec First Division disqualified Mamba for violation of the Omnibus Election Code prohibition on the release and disbursement of public funds during the election period.