The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has disqualified former lawmaker Edgar Erice, a vocal critic of the commission’s new election technology provider, from running for a congressional seat in Caloocan’s 2nd District in the 2025 elections.
The Comelec 2nd Division ruled to bar Erice from “spreading false information across various platforms,” citing his actions as a deliberate attempt to undermine the election process rather than offering legitimate criticism.
Ruling and appeal
The decision, however, is still being determined. Erice can appeal the ruling before the Comelec en banc.
Erice has consistently opposed Comelec’s decision to adopt new machines from South Korea-based Miru Systems, advocating for reusing older technology supplied by previous provider Smartmatic.
“All statements made by the respondent contradict verifiable and widely available facts from Comelec and other sources across platforms. Glaring is the fact that there was no evidence provided by the respondent apart from bare claims made in the media,” stated the ruling.
Basis for disqualification
Erice’s disqualification stems from a petition filed by Raymond Salipot. The Comelec invoked Section 261(z)(11) of the election code, which prohibits candidacies of individuals disseminating false information about the electoral process.
The petition highlighted Erice’s allegations against the commission, including claims of rigged bidding for an ₱18-billion contract in favor of Miru Systems and accusations of bribery involving offshore accounts tied to Comelec officials.
Denial of allegations
Comelec chairman George Garcia has denied the allegations, asserting he has no offshore accounts. Garcia has also requested the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) to investigate the claims to clear any doubts about the integrity of the bidding process.
Looking ahead
The case has drawn attention due to its implications for election credibility and the ongoing debate over Comelec’s choice of technology provider.
As Erice contemplates his next steps, including a possible appeal, the ruling underscores the commission’s resolve to combat disinformation in the electoral process.