Former Laguna Governor’s Controversial Election Victory
Former Laguna Governor E.R. Ejercito has secured a mayoral seat in Pagsanjan, Laguna, despite being declared guilty by the Sandiganbayan and permanently disqualified from holding public office. This surprising outcome has sparked discussions about legal procedures and election rules.
Ejercito won the 2025 midterm elections for mayor of Pagsanjan even though he faces a graft case linked to his 2008 term as mayor. The allegations involve illegal contracts related to insurance claims for boaters and tourists at the Pagsanjan rapids, raising questions about the legitimacy of his candidacy.
Legal Challenges and Ongoing Proceedings
The Supreme Court’s First Division found Ejercito guilty and sentenced him to six to eight years of imprisonment along with perpetual disqualification from holding government office. However, Ejercito insists that the legal battle is not yet over.
“Huwag po tayong maging bobo at tanga at mangmang sa batas. May procedure po ‘yan. Kung natalo man ako sa first division ng Supreme Court, meron pa pong motion for reconsideration po yan. Pagkatapos ng MR, meron pa pong en banc ‘yan,” he declared, emphasizing the processes still available to him.
Election Commission’s Position on the Case
The Commission on Elections chairman stated that the ruling against Ejercito is not yet final and executory, as he may still file a motion for reconsideration. This means his electoral victory remains valid until all legal remedies are exhausted.
Meanwhile, the debate continues over how the legal system and election authorities handle cases involving candidates with pending convictions or disqualifications. The situation underscores the complexities of election law enforcement in the country.
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