Comelec Not Part of Presidential Cabinet
A spokesperson for the Commission on Elections (Comelec) clarified on Thursday, May 22, that the poll body is not included in the President’s Cabinet. This statement comes amid recent calls from Malacañang for all Cabinet secretaries to submit courtesy resignations.
According to sources familiar with the matter, Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia is not a member of the Cabinet. A Comelec spokesman emphasized, “And the Comelec is not a part of the executive department po,” when asked if Garcia would also tender his resignation like some Cabinet secretaries who have done so earlier that day.
Comelec’s Independence Highlighted Amid Political Pressure
Following the announcement from Malacañang, the Duterte Youth Party-list demanded that Garcia follow the Cabinet’s lead and resign. This party-list is notable as one of the two winning groups from the recent elections whose proclamation was suspended by Comelec.
However, local experts remind the public that “The Commission on Elections is an Independent Constitutional Commission directly accountable to and answers directly to the People of the Republic of the Philippines,” according to the Comelec spokesperson. This reinforces the poll body’s autonomous position separate from the executive branch.
President Marcos Calls for Courtesy Resignations
On the same day, President Marcos urged all Cabinet members to submit their courtesy resignations, stating that “it’s time to realign government with the people’s expectations.” He added, “This is not business as usual. The people have spoken, and they expect results—not politics, not excuses. We hear them, and we will act.”
This move signals a shift in governance strategy, aiming to address public demand for more effective leadership and accountability. While the Cabinet secretaries prepare to comply, the Comelec remains steadfast in its independent role.
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