Comelec chairman inhibits self in Erice cases

Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia has inhibited himself from all cases involving former Caloocan City Congressman Edgar 'Egay' Erice.

In a letter dated November 27, 2024, Garcia stated his intention to refrain from participating in any cases filed by or against Erice, citing the need to preserve fairness and impartiality and uphold public trust in the Comelec's integrity.

Garcia invoked Rule 4, Section 1(c) of the 1993 Comelec Rules of Procedure on Inhibition, which allows members to inhibit themselves for just or valid reasons.

The decision follows a disqualification case filed by the Comelec law department against Erice, who is seeking a comeback as Caloocan's 2nd district congressman in next year’s elections.

Erice was accused of spreading false information about the automated election systems and disrupting the electoral process, leading to his disqualification under Section 261(z)(11) of the Omnibus Election Code.