Duterte Youth Threat to Expose Comelec Corruption Faces Backlash
The Duterte Youth Party-list chairman’s recent threat to reveal alleged corruption within the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has stirred controversy instead of support. Sources familiar with the matter indicate that this move, aimed at pressuring the election body, has drawn sharp criticism from youth representatives and political observers.
Outgoing Kabataan Party-list Representative Raoul Manuel questioned why such alleged misconduct was not disclosed sooner. He said, “Self-serving. Kung may alam pala sila tungkol sa korapsyon, bakit di nila isiniwalat dati pa?” (They’re self-serving. If they really know something about corruption, then why didn’t they expose it before?) This comment highlights skepticism regarding the timing and motives behind the Duterte Youth’s threat.
Context Behind the Duterte Youth’s Threat
On May 21, the Duterte Youth Party-list chairman declared intentions to unveil corrupt practices within Comelec if the commission did not allow their party to assume their rightful seat. This announcement came after the Comelec en banc suspended the party’s proclamation following their victory in the 2025 party-list elections.
However, this ultimatum has not been well-received. Critics argue that raising such allegations only after suspension appears opportunistic rather than a genuine call for transparency. Local experts suggest that this could undermine public trust in both the party and the election body.
Criticism from Youth Advocates
Raoul Manuel further criticized the Duterte Youth’s willingness “to set aside corruption, which kills the future of the Filipino youth, for the sake of maintaining a position.” He accused the party of misleading even Duterte supporters with false advocacies. “Niloloko nila kahit ang mga Duterte supporter sa pekeng mga adbokasiya nila,” he said.
Manuel emphasized the importance of consistent and selfless activism, recalling his group’s efforts to expose scandals such as the misuse of confidential funds, the Maharlika Investment scam, and various pork barrel schemes. “Nilantad natin ang iskandalo ng confidential funds ni Sara, Maharlika Investment scam ni Marcos, at iba-iba pang anyo ng pork, nang walang hinihinging kapalit, dahil ang loyalty natin ay sa taumbayan hindi sa sinumang politiko. Ito ang pagiging tunay na makabayan. Ito dapat ang ipakitaa nating example sa kabataan,” he added.
Implications for Election Integrity and Youth Representation
The controversy surrounding the Duterte Youth’s threat to expose Comelec corruption has sparked a broader discussion about election integrity and accountability. It raises questions about whether such claims are being used as political leverage rather than genuine efforts to improve the system.
Community leaders and election observers stress the need for transparency and timely disclosure of any wrongdoing to maintain public confidence. Meanwhile, youth groups urge political parties to prioritize the welfare of Filipino youth over power struggles.
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