Comelec files charges vs v-mayor bet for election manipulation claims

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has filed cyber libel and other charges against Isabela vice mayoralty candidate Jeryll Harold Respicio for claiming on social media that he could manipulate the upcoming Eleksyon 2025.

Respicio, a lawyer and accountant, posted videos on Facebook alleging the existence of backdoor programs that could override Automated Counting Machines (ACMs) and demonstrating how this could be done, though the videos have since been removed.

Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco described these as dangerous claims that condition the public into believing election results can be manipulated.

Comelec Chairperson George Garcia stated that Respicio's statements attack not only the Comelec but the entire electoral process and its integrity.

The poll body is also preparing to file a disqualification case against Respicio, a disbarment case, and is working on the cancellation of his accountant license with the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC).