LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – Congressional candidate and Benguet Vice-Governor Ericson “Tagel” Felipe is facing disqualification case filed by a private citizen for the use of government issued vehicles during his campaign but such allegations were immediately branded as ‘desperate move’ by the concerned local official.
The private citizen, who requested anonymity cited in his petition for disqualification filed on May 2 that Felipe allegedly violated Section 68 of the Omnibus Election Code (OEC), particularly on the use of government vehicle for giving material consideration to influence, induce, or corrupt voters.
In a text message to Herald Express, Felipe branded the said complaint as ‘desperate move’ and simply stated that ‘let’s respond with love.’
In the affidavit, the white vehicle marked “FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY” on the front passenger door regularly parked in front of Felipe’s property in Baguio City was concealed by a magnetic signage bearing the phrase “Good Governance Benguet,” rendered in the congressional candidate’s signature color theme as candidate for Congressman of the Lone District of Benguet.
The petition added the “FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY” marking is being deliberately concealed by magnetic signage bearing the phrase “Good Governance Benguet” as indicated by visible residue surrounding the affected area.
Aside from concealing the markings, it was also alleged that the vehicle’s plate is being interchanged from time to time.
Section 68 of the OEC specifies that any candidate who, in an action or protest in which he is a party is declared by final decision of a competent court guilty of or found by the Commission of having (a) given money or other material consideration to influence, induce or corrupt the voters or public officials performing electoral functions.
Based on the documents obtained by the petitioner, the vehicle is owned by the Provincial Government of Benguet as certified by the Provincial General Services Office (PGSO) which issued a Property Acknowledgment Receipt to Felipe.
The petition also cited that the Supreme Court clarified that prior conviction is not necessary to sustain a petition for disqualification; it is sufficient that substantial evidence exists to support the violation.
The petitioner also prayed that Felipe’s certificate of candidacy be cancelled and declared null and void for performing prohibited acts, and that the votes cast for him should be counted or treated as stray votes.
In a separate statement, the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PF) Benguet chapter where Felipe serves as the standard-bearer for congressman stated that it cannot give a comment on the supposed act complained of as it has yet to receive an official copy of the complaint from the Comelec.
“We cannot help but question the timing of the filing of the complaint. With few more days before the May 12, 2025 mid-term elections, this complaint only seeks one thing, to dampen our spirits,” the PFP statement stressed.
However, the PFP pointed out it will not falter and that it will press on with the help of the Almighty.
The party appealed to the people, most especially to their volunteers and supporters not to be misled by such false allegations and politically motivated complaint. Our legal team is ready to answer any and all cases that are or may be filed against any of our candidates,” the PFP added. HENT
