SC orders COMELEC to include late-filed candidate Balintay on Zambales ballots

The Supreme Court ordered the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to include Chito Bulatao Balintay as a candidate for governor in Zambales and place his name on the official ballots for the 2025 elections.

Balintay filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) 25 minutes before the deadline but returned three minutes past closing time due to missing documents, which COMELEC initially rejected.

The SC reversed COMELEC's decision, ruling that strict adherence to rules could undermine voter intent and fairness in the election process.

COMELEC chairperson George Garcia confirmed Balintay’s name has already been included on the ballots, making him a valid candidate.

The court emphasized that elections should not be conducted under laboratory conditions; COMELEC must adapt quickly to unforeseen circumstances.

Balintay's case highlights the need for election authorities to balance strict rules with fairness and practical considerations during critical filing deadlines.

Following Balintay’s petition, the SC also issued a temporary restraining order on January 14, preventing COMELEC from enforcing its decision rejecting his application.