Comelec cancels Duterte Youth party-list registration

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) Second Division has cancelled the registration of the Duterte Youth party-list by a 2-1 vote.

This decision stems from a 2019 petition alleging void registration due to non-compliance with publication, hearing requirements, and issues with alleged funding from the National Youth Commission.

Petitioners argued that Duterte Youth had defective requirements and was not a true representative of the youth sector.

In August 2019, the Comelec's first division had already cancelled Ronald Cardema's nomination as the party-list's representative due to material misrepresentation regarding his eligibility.

Kabataan party-list lauded the Comelec's decision, stating that Duterte Youth "truly deserve" to have their registration cancelled.

The ruling is not yet final, and the Duterte Youth party-list may file a motion for reconsideration within five days.

Comelec chairperson George Garcia clarified that the party-list could still be proclaimed if the Comelec en banc reverses the Second Division's decision.