Multiple Disqualification Cases Filed Against Benguet Representative
LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – Benguet Representative Eric Go Yap is preparing to take legal action against individuals behind the multiple disqualification cases filed against him. Seven separate disqualification petitions have been lodged before the Commission on Elections (Comelec), all challenging his eligibility.
These cases were submitted by a group of petitioners, including Cresencio Akia, Danny S. Montes, Patricio A. Ananayo, and others. They question his citizenship, although no substantial evidence has been presented to support their claims.
“Another disqualification case was filed against me today, to date, it’s the seventh already. Again, the petition questions my citizenship but with no proof to back up their claims,” Yap stated.
Impact on Proclamation and Legal Response
Yap’s proclamation, despite securing 144,093 votes, was temporarily halted due to one of the pending disqualification cases. The Comelec issued the hold order amid ongoing investigations.
In response, Yap made it clear that those filing these petitions will face consequences. “As mentioned previously, the petitioners will face serious charges. Our lawyers are drafting the charges already against every single one of them. Masyadong malaking damage na ‘yung ginagawa nila and nararapat lang siguro na may pananagutan din sila sa ginagawa nila because this is no longer ethical and professional, ito po ay mockery na, pambababoy na sa proseso. It’s important to note na itong mga kaso po ay filed after the election, after malaman na kung sino ang pinili ng mga tao,” he added.
Newest Petition and Future Proceedings
The sixth disqualification case was received on May 27, filed by Rufino Soriano III and Agustina Igualdo Peter from Buguias, Benguet. Like the others, this petition also questions Yap’s citizenship.
Yap acknowledged the orchestrated nature of these filings but emphasized the need to address each case promptly to avoid leaving Benguet without a representative come July 1. “We know who’s behind all these but we will deal with that later. Kailangan lang muna sagutin ang mga ito otherwise, we risk not having a sitting Benguet representative come July 1. We will hurdle these and the petitioners will have their day in the court after,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Yap remains confident that the legal system will provide a resolution and allow him to serve his constituents effectively.
For more news and updates on Benguet representative disqualification cases, visit Filipinokami.com.