The Commission on Elections (Comelec) said Saturday’s special election in Antipolo City’s 2nd District proceeded smoothly, with all complaints and reported irregularities properly documented and addressed to uphold the integrity of the vote.
Comelec Chairman George Garcia said allegations of election offenses were immediately referred to the city election officer and the Comelec Law Department.
“Minutes of all incidents and complaints were carefully recorded. Only documented incidents can form the basis for legal proceedings,” Garcia said, emphasizing that the system ensures accountability while distinguishing minor procedural issues from substantive offenses.
Garcia cited several reported irregularities during the day, including the alleged distribution of sample ballots inside precincts despite rules prohibiting electioneering on election day. Children were also prevented from distributing ballots in line with Republic Act 7166 and the Omnibus Election Code.
Poll watchers also filed complaints regarding voter conduct and the actions of supporters, which were immediately referred to the city election officer for verification and documentation.
Concerns were likewise raised over voter registration, particularly deactivated voters whose names were missing from precinct lists after missing previous elections or whose registration had yet to be approved by the Election Registration Board.
Garcia clarified that isolated incidents—such as improper handling of campaign materials or disputes over voter eligibility—do not invalidate the election.
“Only substantial irregularities that could affect the outcome of the vote may lead to legal action,” he said.
He stressed that all complaints submitted by poll watchers or observers were incorporated into the official minutes, ensuring proper documentation that could serve as evidence if legal action becomes necessary.
“It’s important that issues are formally recorded rather than discussed informally,” Garcia said, warning that unrecorded incidents have no legal weight.
Garcia added that the Comelec Law Department would review all complaints and pursue appropriate action when warranted. Election offenses detected during the day may lead to sanctions, including possible prosecution.
“The procedures we implemented ensure transparency, accountability, and fairness,” Garcia said. “All voters can be confident that complaints are treated seriously and the integrity of the election is maintained.”