COMELEC Chair García Pushes Due Process, Deadlines in Contractor and Finance Probes

MANILA — Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Erwin García said in the recent ambush interview that the poll body is moving to finalize show-cause orders and resolve political finance inquiries involving public works contractors and candidates from the 2022 elections, as the Political Finance and Affairs Department (PFAD) continues its review of submitted explanations.

García confirmed that some DPWH contractors have submitted their replies, while others requested more time after receiving notices late. COMELEC granted a final five-day extension, he said.

“That will be the last extension that we will give to them,” Garcia stressed. “We are not in a hurry, but what is important is that we can afford due process so no one can say anything.”

PFAD is now preparing show-cause orders for candidates named by contractors. “If not today, until tomorrow, those show-cause orders might be released,” he said.

García added that PFAD may dismiss cases that lack basis without elevating them to the Commission En Banc, but cases with sufficient grounds will be endorsed for approval. He aims for resolutions “before the end of the year.”

A complication emerged after private lawyers filed a separate complaint before the COMELEC Law Department, which now conducts a formal preliminary investigation. García acknowledged the need to issue PFAD’s findings promptly to avoid prejudgment concerns.

On discrepancies involving SALNs and SOCEs, he said the PFAD investigation remains purely fact-finding. “We have not yet said the declaration was wrong because we need to hear it first,” he said, noting that violations could fall under RA 7166 or even perjury if proven.

García also said he may inhibit from certain cases to maintain impartiality.

Meanwhile, the Chairman warned that the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections may face delays if the Bangsamoro Parliament fails to pass needed legislation by November 30, noting COMELEC’s preparation timelines and Supreme Court deadlines.

“It’s a self-imposed deadline to pressure the Comelec, not the Parliament,” he clarified.

He also cautioned that reopening accreditation for political parties and sectoral groups in BARMM would further complicate ballot finalization and preparations.

Despite overlapping investigations and legislative uncertainties, García said COMELEC will continue to act strictly within its mandate. “We want our process to be pure and not based on sentiment or popular decision,” he added.

Guardian of Due Process: How Comelec Chairman George Erwin García Steers the Institution Through Complexity and Controversy

In a season when politics feels louder, faster, and increasingly complicated, one institution remains the quiet anchor of democratic order: the Commission on Elections. And at its helm stands Chairman George Erwin Mojica García, a lawyer known not only for his brilliance in election law but also for his rare balance of firmness and fairness.

In an exclusive conversation, Chairman García opened up about the latest challenges the Comelec faces—from contractor compliance and political finance issues to legal complexities and looming election deadlines. What emerged is a clear portrait of a leader who is methodical, principled, and unwavering in his commitment to due process.

A Pragmatic but Firm Approach

Even as Comelec tightens oversight on public works contractors from the 2022 elections, García acknowledges that delays in compliance were sometimes caused by simple logistical realities, late notices, provincial addresses, or missed schedules.

“The office understood why they were not able to submit a reply because they only received a registered mail,” he explained. “So we said that it would be better to just give it to them, but that will be the last extension that we will give to them.”

This blend of empathy and assertiveness has become a signature of his leadership. For García, ensuring fairness is non-negotiable, but so is enforcing structure.

Due Process Above All

In the time where public pressure and social media sentiment often attempt to shape outcomes, the Chairman stands firm on principles.

“We are not in a hurry,” he said, “but what is important is that we can afford due process so that no one can say anything.”

He emphasizes equal treatment, whether one is a small contractor, a congressional candidate, or a senatorial aspirant. Everyone is given the opportunity to be heard, and every reply is reviewed with meticulous attention.

Comelec’s Political Finance and Affairs Department (PFAD) is currently evaluating contractor submissions and preparing show-cause orders for various candidates. García assures the public that the process is moving swiftly but responsibly:

“You can expect that, if not today, then tomorrow, those show-cause orders might be released.”

A Race Against Time—Handled With Precision

Despite the volume of cases and the overlapping schedules, García has set an ambitious timetable: to resolve all pending matters before the year ends.

“This issue is not that difficult to resolve,” he said with a calm confidence. “As much as possible, before the end of this year of December, the Commission should have a disposition.”

He explains the structured process clearly:

• PFAD conducts fact-finding.

• If probable cause is found, the case goes to the Law Department.

• The Law Department conducts preliminary investigation.

• Only then can Comelec En Banc act.

Even during complications, such as overlapping cases filed formally by external lawyers, García insists the public deserves clarity.

“People have been waiting for a long time… at all costs, the En Banc or that office should now immediately dispose of that particular case.”

This sense of moral urgency, grounded in legal discipline, underscores why García is widely respected in both legal and political circles.

Integrity in Action, Even When It Means Stepping Back

One of the most admirable aspects of García’s leadership is his willingness to inhibit himself from certain cases to preserve Comelec’s integrity.

“Because of what happened in the past, I will probably inhibit… just to be fair, we don’t want anything that can influence our colleagues,” he said.

It is a rare act in Philippine politics—choosing impartiality over influence. And it reinforces the message he wants the public to hear:

“We have not yet accused anyone of lying… we need to hear it first. Let’s wait for the disposition of the office.”

By championing the presumption of innocence, García elevates public discourse back to the rule of law.

Legal Responsibility, Explained With Clarity

When asked about the potential consequences of discrepancies in SALNs or SOCEs, García offers a straightforward explanation:

• Non-disclosure can be a violation of RA 7166.

• False declarations may amount to perjury.

Yet he immediately follows this with a gentle reminder:

“We are not saying yet that the declaration was wrong… because we need to hear it first.”

This consistent refrain—fairness, patience, process—is precisely why his leadership feels stabilizing.

The High-Stakes Countdown to the BARMM Parliamentary Elections

With the March 31 BARMM elections nearing, García is transparent about the urgency of legislative timelines.

“If we really didn’t pass the law by November 30, it will be hard for us to push the election on March 30 without pres

COMELEC Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia Honored the Launch of Commemorative Volume Marking 85 Years of Electoral Service

In a historic celebration of Philippine democracy, COMELEC Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia played a central role in launching the Commission’s forthcoming commemorative volume, Guardians of the Ballot: 85 Years of the Commission on Elections of the Philippines. Chairman Garcia personally signed the contract for the publication with esteemed author Prof. Gerard A. Lico, marking a significant milestone in documenting the legacy of the Commission.

The commemorative volume serves as both a historical testament and a cultural archive, capturing COMELEC’s long and vigilant stewardship of the Filipino vote. From landmark elections and pivotal reforms to the quiet dedication of countless personnel, the book highlights the Commission’s unwavering commitment to integrity, transparency, and service across generations.

Chairman Garcia emphasized that this initiative reflects a shared vision with Prof. Lico: to narrate the story of Philippine elections with clarity, integrity, and reverence for history while looking forward to a strengthened democratic future. “This work honors those who have kept faith with the sovereign will of the people,” Garcia noted, underscoring his dedication to fostering public trust and appreciation for the nation’s electoral heritage.

Also present at the contract signing was Dir. Frances Carolyn M. Aguindadao-Arabe, Director IV of the Education and Information Department, who has been instrumental in shaping the project. Together, their efforts ensure that Guardians of the Ballot will stand as a tribute to the men and women of COMELEC, past and present, and as a beacon for future generations.

Under Chairman Garcia’s leadership, COMELEC continues to champion transparency, accountability, and civic education, reinforcing the enduring architecture of Philippine democracy.

#COMELEC85thAnniversary

#85YearsOfService

#GuardiansOfTheBallot

COMELEC Chair George Erwin M. Garcia: “Upholding Integrity in the issuance of SCO

Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to full transparency and due process as it prepares to issue a Show Cause Order (SCO) to Senator Rodante Marcoleta regarding questions on campaign donations.

Chairman Garcia stressed that the SCO is not a penalty, but an avenue to allow the concerned party to explain his side clearly and officially.

“Mag-iisyu ang COMELEC ng Show Cause Order para magkaroon din ng venue ang ating butihing senador na makapagpaliwanag,” Garcia said.

“Mahirap na sa social media, kasama na rin ang COMELEC. Baka akala hindi kami umaaksyon.”

He reiterated that for the Commission, the priority is clarity, not accusation.

“In the meantime, hindi muna ‘yung liability ang tinitingnan ng COMELEC. Ano ba ang paliwanag? Ano ang kadahilanan? Babalansehin namin ang ebidensiya as against sa hawak namin na dokumento,” he explained.

The COMELEC will review all submissions to determine objectively whether there is basis to file a case or to simply set aside the issue if no violation is found.

“Walang Exemption”: Donations Must Always Be Declared

Chairman Garcia was firm in reminding candidates and public officials that all campaign donations, especially those received during the campaign period, must be fully declared, without exception.

“As far as the COMELEC is concerned, wala talagang exemption doon,” he emphasized.

“Dapat ilalatag lahat. Ano pa ang purpose ng publication, ng submission sa amin, at ng panunumpa kung meron naman tayong hindi ilalagay?”

Garcia highlighted that undeclared donations undermine the integrity of the electoral process and defeat the purpose of campaign finance laws intended to ensure fairness and transparency.

BARMM Parliamentary Elections: COMELEC Awaits Districting Law

The COMELEC Chairman also discussed the situation in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), where uncertainty remains due to the pending districting law required for the 2025–2026 electoral calendar.

Although the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) is aware of the November 30, 2025 deadline, the law has yet to be passed.

“Unfortunately, naghihintay pa rin po tayo ngayon sa balita kung maipapasa ang districting law,” Garcia said.

“Alam ng BTA na kinakailangang may batas na bago mag–November 30 dahil kailangan magsimula ng filing of candidacy pagpasok ng Enero.”

Without a districting law, COMELEC warns that it will not have enough time to prepare, especially since the BARMM polls are planned to be an automated election, requiring longer preparation and more technical deployment.

A Commitment to Integrity

Throughout his message, Chairman Garcia emphasized that transparency and accountability guide every COMELEC action, whether in addressing allegations involving a senator or ensuring a smooth electoral process in BARMM.

His assurance was clear:

“Para sa katiwasayan ng lahat… gagawin po namin ‘yon. At asahan ninyo po, sa mga susunod na araw, ma-iisyu na ang Show Cause Order.”

With these statements, COMELEC under Chairman Garcia reiterates its mandate: to uphold fair elections, protect due process, and maintain public trust, no exceptions, no shortcuts.

#comelec #topnewsasia #marcoleta #baarmm

Rising Tigers Magazine and Embassy of Malaysia Present Law and Governance Forum for the Youth, Women, Inclusivity, and the Nation

 

November 14, 2025

MANILA — November 17, 2025 — Manila will host a premier gathering of the country’s legal, diplomatic, and public service leaders at the Law and Governance Forum, a landmark intellectual event presented by Rising Tigers Magazine and hosted in partnership with the Embassy of Malaysia. The event is conceptualized by Andria Terese Bondad Nicolas, who serves as Chairman of the Event, with a mission to engage the youth, women, inclusivity advocates, and the entire nation in meaningful dialogue on governance, law, and ethical leadership.

The forum brings together distinguished leaders in public service, politics, diplomacy, and the legal profession to discuss pressing issues shaping the Philippines’ governance and justice system. It serves as a platform for enlightened dialogue, policy insight, and civic inspiration, highlighting the importance of integrity, inclusivity, and ethical leadership in public service.

This year’s star-studded speaker lineup includes:

• Hon. Justice Midas Marquez, Supreme Court of the Philippines

• H.E. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castellino, Ambassador of Malaysia

• H.E. Agus Widjojo, Ambassador of Indonesia

• DOJ Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez

• Hon. Congressman Brian Poe Llamanzares, FPJ Panday Bayanihan Partylist

• Atty. Margarita Nograles, Nograles Ilagan Cayco Lizada & Dabi (NICLD)

• Atty. Lyka Balita, Secretary General, Philippine Young Entrepreneurs Association

Moderators include:

• Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas, serial entrepreneur and former Regional Media Coordinator, Consultant, and Writer at Philippine Information Agency (PIA R4A). She is now President and Editor-in-Chief of Rising Tigers Magazine, InCharge Magazine, and TopNewsAsia, and the first Filipina woman President of the American Association of the Philippines.

• Faye Arellano Marquez, entrepreneur and board member of the Indonesia Philippines Business Association and PCCI Quezon City.

The forum invites students, lawyers, business leaders, and civic-minded citizens to engage in discussions on the rule of law, governance, inclusivity, and ethical leadership, turning a regular day into a “class act” day.

Participants will receive certificates of attendance, and the event will be livestreamed via the official Facebook Pages of Rising Tigers Magazine, TopNewsAsia, and Carl E. Balita, ensuring nationwide accessibility.

“The Law and Governance Forum demonstrates how education, dialogue, and civic engagement empower Filipinos to build a more ethical, inclusive, and transparent governance,” organizers said.

Event Details:

• Date: November 17, 2025

• Location: Face-to-Face (Invite Only, Limited Slots)

• Zoom Access: QR code available on official poster

• Registration & Inquiries: +63 977 897 8877 | President@rising-tigers.asia

Hashtags: #RisingTigers #NationBuilders #LawAndGovernanceForum #LeadershipInAction #YouthWomenNation #Inclusivity

COMELEC Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia Reaffirms Commitment to BARMM Elections, Meets with Diplomatic Corps for Transparency Briefing

Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia met with around 60 ambassadors and consuls from various countries to provide a direct and transparent briefing on the developments surrounding the postponed Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) elections.

Chairman Garcia emphasized that the briefing aimed to ensure that the international community receives accurate information “straight from the horse’s mouth,” preventing misinformation or speculation stemming from unverified reports.

“We requested their presence so we can personally brief them on what happened in Bangsamoro — why the elections did not push through — so they can hear it directly from us, not just from what they see or read in the media,” Garcia said. “It’s better that the information comes from us, so there is no fake news or misinformation.”

During the meeting, Chairman Garcia gave the Diplomatic Corps a firm assurance that the COMELEC remains fully committed to conducting the BARMM elections within the March 31, 2026 deadline set by the Supreme Court.

“The most important thing today is to guarantee that the COMELEC is dead serious in conducting the election,” he stated. “The election will definitely push through, and we will comply with the Supreme Court’s deadline, as long as the enabling law is passed. It’s business as usual, and surely, an election will be forthcoming.”

In line with COMELEC’s drive for integrity and accountability, Chairman Garcia also revealed that 27 contractors have already been issued notices to explain alleged violations of election-related restrictions.

“They have been sent notices to explain. In the next two weeks, all of them will be called in according to schedule to submit their counter-affidavits and respond to possible allegations,” he said.

The allegations include being government contractors and providing assistance, financial or in kind, to candidates during the electoral period. Following this, the Political Finance and Affairs Department will issue Show Cause Orders to the concerned candidates, regardless of position.

Chairman Garcia reiterated that these actions reflect COMELEC’s firm commitment to uphold transparency, accountability, and the rule of law in all its operations, especially as it prepares for the rescheduled BARMM elections.

“We want to assure both the Filipino people and our international partners that COMELEC remains steadfast in ensuring fair, credible, and lawful elections, wherever and whenever they may be held,” Garcia affirmed. / Via Grace Bondad Nicolas

Choosing Kindness in a World Full of Bullies

By Grace Bondad Nicolas

We live in a modern world — or at least, that’s what we like to think about this generation. But still, cruelty seems to have found a comfortable home, both online and in real life.

Social media has become a battleground of opinions and egos, while in the real world, we see groups forming, excluding, and judging others as if unkindness were a badge of superiority.

I belong to many groups, and yes, I’ve experienced bullying. The difference is, I can now look back at them with fierce and confident eyes.

People will look at you and talk behind your back.

Some will choose silence, refusing to acknowledge you even when you’re part of the same organization.

Others will act entitled, as if the world owes them validation.

And yes — I’m talking about you.

The irony is that many of these same people are also fighting their own battles — dealing with pain, insecurities, and fears. Yet instead of healing, they project their struggles outward, hurting others with the same pain they can’t face within themselves.

I have seen this, felt this, and lived through it.

But still, we must choose to be kind.

Not because it’s easy, but because it’s the harder, braver choice.

Kindness, for me, is not a reaction — it’s a decision.

It’s waking up each day and choosing peace, even when chaos surrounds me.

That’s why I love being in nature and caring for my furry babies — they remind me what unconditional love looks like.

It’s also understanding that hurt people often hurt others — and deciding not to be one of them.

There are moments when it feels lonely to be kind.

When silence feels safer than speaking up.

When grace feels like surrender.

When you wonder if being good still matters.

But I’ve learned that kindness isn’t weakness.

It’s quiet strength.

Here’s why we must continue to choose it, despite it all:

1. Kindness protects my peace.

When I respond with grace, I take control of my energy. I refuse to be consumed by anger or hate.

2. Kindness breaks the pattern.

I cannot control how others behave, but I can end the cycle of cruelty by refusing to mirror it.

3. Kindness defines who I am.

The way others treat me reveals their character; the way I respond reveals mine.

4. Kindness inspires hope.

In today’s world that’s growing colder, one act of compassion can remind others that goodness still exists.

5. Kindness heals me.

Every time I choose empathy over resentment, I grow lighter. I become free.

Oh, and did I mention I’ve stopped eating animals? That’s where my journey of kindness truly began.

People can be cruel, yes — but that doesn’t mean we should be.

I’d rather be remembered for my grace than for my grudges.

At the end of the day, how we treat others — especially when they don’t deserve it — says everything about who we truly are. The Golden Rule, we must not forget. 

And so, even when the universe chooses cruelty, please continue to choose kindness.

Not because it’s easy, but because it’s right.

⸻

Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas is the President of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry–Los Baños (PCCI-LB), COO of Tag Media Group, and Publisher of Rising Tigers Magazine, InCharge Magazine, and TopNewsAsia. The first Filipina and Woman who became the President of American Association of the Philippines after 73 years. She continues to advocate leadership with compassion, inclusivity, and authenticity.