SC orders Marcos to explain contempt reasons

The Supreme Court has ordered Francis Leo Antonio Marcos to explain why he should not face contempt charges after withdrawing his candidacy for the 2025 senatorial race.

On January 21, 2025, the SC issued a Temporary Restraining Order allowing Marcos to run despite being declared a nuisance candidate by the Commission on Elections in November of the previous year.

Marcos withdrew his candidacy on January 23 after hearing that the government would spend P132 million for ballot reprinting due to his disqualification.

The Supreme Court spokesperson Atty. Camille Ting stated at a press briefing that Marcos has 72 hours from receipt of notice to provide reasons why contempt charges should not be filed against him.

Ting said the High Court issued a temporary restraining order on January 21, allowing Marcos to run despite his disqualification by the Comelec.

Marcos' withdrawal was made to prevent wastage of government funds for ballot reprinting and to give way for Senator Imee Marcos's reelection bid.