Disqualification sought vs Laguna gov, wife for vote-buying, violations of electoral code

MANILA, Philippines — Petitions to disqualify Laguna Gov. Ramil Hernandez and wife Rep, Ruth Mariano-Hernandez for alleged massive vote-buying and other violations of the Omnibus Election Code were filed separately before the Commission on Elections on Thursday.

The husband and wife team are both running in the May 12, 2025 national and local elections. Outgoing Gov. Hernandez is running for congressman in Laguna's second district, while his wife Rep. Hernandez is seeking the gubernatorial post.

Celito J., Baron, a registered voter from Laguna, accused the Hernandezes of orchestrating widespread distribution of cash and goods in exchange for votes.

"A Petition for Disqualification is hereby filed against Ruth Hernandez for violation of Section 24 Comelec Resolution 11104 in relation to Section 261 (a) of the Omnibus Election Code; b) for commission of acts which constitute Abuse of State Resources under Section 34 of the Omnibus Election Code in relation to Section 261 (o) of the Omnibus Election Code; c) for violation of COMELEC Resolution No. 11060 Section 2 in relation to Section 261 (v) of the Omnibus Election Code," the petition read.

A key allegation raised in the disqualification complaint involves the supposed transport of Cabuyao City residents to a warehouse in Calamba City under the guise of a training session for poll watchers.

Petitioner alleged that the gathering was merely a front for distributing money in exchange for votes.

Participants were allegedly handed shirts bearing images of the Hernandez couple, along with food, bottled water, and envelopes said to contain P2,000 in cash.