RTC issues TRO vs Comelec resolution on permit for poll activities

The Baguio City Regional Trial Court has issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) against Comelec Resolution 10732, which mandates volunteer groups to secure permits for election-related activities.

The court's order, signed by Executive Judge Ligaya Itliong-Rivera, initially prohibited the Comelec from enforcing the resolution for a period of 72 hours.

This decision followed a petition from volunteer groups supporting presidential aspirant Vice President Leni Robredo, who argued they would suffer grave and irreparable injury if the resolution was enforced without a hearing.

The Comelec agreed to observe the status quo while the court schedules a hearing on the petitioners' bid to extend the TRO.

A hearing on the petitioners' call to extend the TRO was moved from March 1, as the Comelec's representative needed to furnish a copy of the petition and the order to the Office of the Solicitor General.

The halt order on Comelec’s physical campaigning guidelines will remain suspended until at least April 4.