Drilon wants Comelec commissioner's resignation over extortion allegations

Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon is calling for the resignation of newly-appointed Comelec Commissioner Aimee Torrefranca-Neri due to allegations of extortion.

Drilon expressed concerns that Neri's appointment could compromise the integrity of the Commission on Elections for the upcoming May 2022 elections.

He cited allegations that Neri, then a Justice Assistant Secretary, was involved in a P10 million extortion scheme concerning a drug lord's robbery case.

The daughter of the drug lord claimed Neri asked for P10 million to influence the Supreme Court, with P7 million allegedly returned and P3 million kept.

Atty. Ferdinand Topacio, legal counsel for the alleged drug lord, has reportedly confirmed the delivery of the P10 million payment.

Comelec spokesman James B. Jimenez stated that Neri assured him she was ready to face the charges in the proper forum.

Malacañang defended Neri's appointment, stating it was the President's prerogative and that she underwent a vetting process.

Acting presidential spokesperson Martin Andanar noted that Neri served as the President's lawyer in the gender's office in Davao.