MANILA, Philippines — The first parliamentary election in the Bangsamoro will not be considered finished with the conclusion of voting and counting, Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia said Monday, as the poll body prepares for canvassing, possible protests and the eventual proclamation of winners.
Responding to a question from The Manila Times on whether the completion of voting would be enough for the Comelec to consider the first Bangsamoro parliamentary election successful, Garcia said the electoral process extends beyond election day.
“The election does not end with voting and counting,” Garcia said, noting that the election period continues even after voting.
He said the Comelec would still have to deal with election-related complaints, petitions and possible cases involving candidates and other participants.
Garcia said the commission could annul a proclamation, set aside results or cancel the candidacy of a candidate when warranted under election rules.