Supreme Court Decision Boosts Palompon Leyte Mayor-Elect
TACLOBAN CITY – Palompon, Leyte Mayor-elect Mary Dominique DM Oñate has welcomed the Supreme Court ruling declaring her not a nuisance candidate in the May 2025 elections. This landmark decision on her candidacy has inspired her to prove genuine service and promote a more progressive Palompon.
“This ruling is a testament to all new and upcoming leaders that being inexperienced is not a hindrance to run and serve the people,” Oñate said. She expressed determination to use the verdict as motivation to bring positive change.
Background of the Nuisance Candidate Case
The case originated when former Mayor Georgina Arevalo filed a petition with the Commission on Elections on October 16, 2024, seeking to declare Oñate a nuisance candidate and cancel her Certificate of Candidacy. Arevalo had lost to Oñate’s father, Ramon, in the 2022 elections.
Arevalo argued that DM lacked a genuine intent to run and that her candidacy would undermine the election process. She claimed that Oñate had no political experience managing a second-class municipality with about 63,000 residents. Furthermore, Arevalo said Oñate had little involvement in socio-civic or political activities to justify her bid for office.
Accusations of Proxy Candidacy
Arevalo also alleged that Oñate’s candidacy was motivated by personal reasons and aimed at vindicating her father, who was dismissed from service by the Ombudsman due to administrative charges. Arevalo suggested that DM was merely a proxy candidate for her father, who could no longer run.
DM Oñate’s Rebuttal and Defense
DM firmly denied these claims, highlighting her strong academic record, active participation in socio-civic engagements, leadership roles in the student council, and involvement in multiple outreach programs and organizations. She also pointed out that her nomination came through the People’s Reform Party (PRP), which fielded a complete slate of candidates after a thorough vetting process.
She emphasized, “A political background is not a qualification for candidates running for mayor. Otherwise, the pool of candidates would be severely restricted, contrary to the nature of a representative democracy.”
Oñate further argued that personal motivations do not negate a sincere commitment to public service. She clarified that the public statement cited by the petitioner was taken out of context and did not reflect her true intentions.
Looking Ahead for Palompon Leyte Mayor-Elect
With the Supreme Court ruling clearing her path, DM Oñate is ready to focus on delivering genuine service to Palompon’s residents. Local leaders noted this decision sets an encouraging example for young leaders who aspire to serve despite limited experience.
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