Comelec 2nd Division lifts Yap's suspension, orders official proclamation; three more petitions pending

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) 2nd Division has lifted the suspension of Eric Go Yap's proclamation as Benguet's lone district representative following the dismissal of a disqualification petition.

A petition filed by Franklin Tino alleging material misrepresentation due to questions about Yap's citizenship was dismissed for lack of evidence, with the Comelec emphasizing that justice is not served by speculation but by evidence.

The poll body ordered the Benguet Provincial Board of Canvassers to reconvene and officially proclaim Yap as the duly elected representative.

At least three more petitions against Yap remain pending with the Comelec yet to decide on them.

Yap welcomed the ruling, stating he would pursue counter-charges against those who filed baseless cases to derail his candidacy.

Petitioner Tino has five days to file a motion for reconsideration before the decision becomes final and executory.