Comelec suspends Mandanas' PHP273M aid exemption

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) suspended an exemption granted to the provincial government of Batangas led by Governor Hermilando Mandanas for distributing financial aid during the campaign period.

A group called Progressive Allied Batangueños raised concerns that the funds might be used to influence voters, citing potential vote-buying and giving Mandanas an undue advantage over his opponents.

In an en banc decision dated April 21, the Comelec revoked the exemption previously granted by its Law Department to the provincial government of Batangas in connection with the distribution of financial assistance during the election period.

The suspension affects a financial assistance amount of PHP273.2 million, which was approved for various aid-related projects such as cash-for-work programs and scholarships.

Comelec Chairperson George Garcia emphasized that the revocation does not imply abuse but is based on serious allegations raised by PAB, prompting an investigation into how the funds were to be spent.

Mandanas stated he will follow Comelec's order but plans to file an appeal due to urgent needs of his constituents and faces two opponents in his bid for vice governor: Bauan Mayor Ryanh Dolor and television host Luis Manzano.