Duterte Youth Party-List Files Supreme Court Petition
The Duterte Youth party-list has taken decisive legal action by filing a petition before the Supreme Court to stop the Commission on Elections (Comelec) from canceling its registration. This petition for certiorari, spanning 34 pages, challenges the Comelec’s decision as a “grave abuse of discretion amounting to lack or excess of jurisdiction.” The party-list urgently seeks relief through a temporary restraining order to halt the cancellation and preserve its status.
Legal Arguments and Urgent Requests
In its filing, the Duterte Youth party-list asked the Supreme Court to nullify the Comelec decision and issue a status quo ante order. This would restore and maintain the party-list’s current position and rights. Furthermore, the petition requests a special raffle to expedite the court’s resolution of the matter, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Comelec’s Stance on the Petition
Meanwhile, Comelec chair George Erwin Garcia commented that the petition was “completely expected.” He clarified that the period for finality will continue without interruption unless the Supreme Court issues an injunctive writ. This means Comelec intends to proceed with enforcing its cancellation unless legally restrained.
Background: Comelec’s Cancellation Decision
On August 29, the Comelec en banc upheld its ruling to cancel Duterte Youth’s registration due to failure to meet jurisdictional requirements. The cancellation strips the party-list of all rights and privileges that come with accreditation, including the ability to hold a congressional seat.
Implications for Duterte Youth in 2025 Elections
Despite Duterte Youth receiving the second highest number of votes in the 2025 party-list elections, the cancellation means it will lose its claim to a seat in Congress. This development has significant political consequences, as the party-list will no longer represent its constituents in the legislative branch.
Community members and local leaders have expressed close attention to this ongoing legal battle, recognizing its impact on political representation and party-list accreditation rules.
For more news and updates on Duterte Youth party-list, visit Filipinokami.com.
