Comelec to summon 52 contractors, 26 bets over illegal poll donations

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will summon 52 contractors and 26 candidates over alleged illegal campaign donations during the 2022 elections.

Businessman Lawrence Lubiano admitted to donating P30 million to Senator Francis Escudero's campaign.

Lubiano's firm, Centerways Construction and Development Inc., reportedly held government contracts at the time of the donation.

Comelec Chairperson George Garcia stated that show-cause orders will be issued to the contractors, giving them five days to explain why they should not be prosecuted.

The poll body has requested the Department of Public Works and Highways to certify if the flagged firms are indeed government contractors.

Fifty-two companies were flagged for donating to four senatorial, three congressional district, 15 party-list groups, and two gubernatorial and vice-gubernatorial candidates.

Violators of the campaign finance law, which prohibits government contractors from making political contributions, face up to six years in prison and perpetual disqualification from public office.