COMELEC orders Urdaneta mayor, vice mayor to explain 'kissing auction'

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) ordered Urdaneta City Mayor Rammy Parayno and Vice Mayor Jimmy Parayno to explain their involvement in a 'kissing auction' campaign event on April 24.

During the rally, officials reportedly bid up to P5,000 for the chance to kiss an elderly woman from the crowd, with the bidding starting at P1,000 and a video of the incident going viral online.

The candidates have three days to submit a written explanation or risk facing election offenses and disqualification under Comelec Resolution No. 1116, which aims to address discrimination and ensure fair campaigning practices.

Gender-based harassment includes unwanted sexual actions or remarks made in person or online, according to the guidelines issued by COMELEC in February.

Violations can result in disqualification from holding public office, loss of voting rights, and imprisonment for up to six years.