Comelec: Cagayan governor Mamba out for violating public spending ban

In a 13-page decision promulgated on Oct. 7 but released only on Monday night, the Comelec stated that the partial motion for reconsideration filed by Pudno Nga Ilocano was denied as it did not raise new matters or issues that would convince the poll body to reconsider its decision.

Philstar.com / AJ Bolando, file

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections’ Second Division has disqualified Manuel Mamba as a candidate for the position of Governor for Cagayan Province for violating the 45-day public spending ban during campaign period.

Ma. Zarah Rose de Guzman Lara, a candidate gunning for the same seat, filed the petition on May 10, 2022. Lara asked the poll body to disqualify Mamba's candidacy over “massive vote buying activities” using funds from the provincial government. She also prayed for the Board of Canvassers to suspend Mamba’s proclamation should he gets the highest number of votes. 

The poll body said Lara failed to prove Mamba engaged in vote buying activities but ruled his use of funds supposed to be allocated to provincial programs without “express exemption” led to his disqualification order. 

Full Story: https://www.philstar.com/nation/2022/12/15/2231014/cagayan-governor-mamba-served-dq-order-violating-public-spending-ban