Comelec division voids 2022 Cotabato poll results, declares Guiani mayor

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Cotabato Mayor Bruce Matabalao says he remains as the city's duly elected local chief executive, and will seek legal remedy

COTABATO CITY, Philippines – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has declared former Cotabato mayor Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi the winner of the city’s 2022 mayoral race.

The decision was issued by the Comelec’s 2nd Division on Wednesday, April 23, less than three weeks before the midterm elections.

The Comelec division nullified the election results in 36 clustered precincts in Cotabato City, citing irregularities and fraud that rendered the results “devoid of prohibitive value.”

It also set aside the proclamation of Mohammad Ali “Bruce” Matabalao as the duly elected mayor in 2022, declaring Guiani-Sayadi as the duly elected local chief executive for “having obtained the majority of the valid votes cast after the exclusion of the annulled results.”

“Our action is important for every Cotabateño because it will prove that every vote we place on the ballot contains the true sentiment of the citizens of our city, free from irregularities, deception, intimidation, and violence,” Guiani said.

“Let us continue to pray that despite everything that has happened, the truth will still prevail. I believe that a leader’s character is measured by their integrity and credibility. I chose to stand firm even though I know I am only a small voice,” she added.

Matabalao confirmed he has received the Comelec division’s decision, adding that he respects the legal processes.

But he said, “The decision is not final as I will undertake the proper legal remedy.”

He maintained that he remains the duly elected mayor and will continue to serve the city.

The initial Comelec count in 2022 showed that Matabalao garnered 29,818 votes while Guiani got 22,939. Guiani protested and asked the poll body to nullify the results in 36 clustered precincts in Barangays Poblacion II, Poblacion VII, Bagua 2, Kalanganan Mother, and Kalanganan 1.

Matabalao is seeking a second term, a bid being challenged by Guiani and Vice Mayor Joharie “Butch” Abu, his 2022 running mate. – Rappler.com