Story By Villamor C. Visaya Jr.,Philippine Daily Inquirer News Correspondent/GMA7 news stringer @www.luzonwidenewscorrespondent.net
TUGUEGARAO CITY-Again, the Commission on Elections disqualified Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba, affirming the nullification of his victory in the May 2022 elections and junking his motion for partial reconsideration.
In the decision released on Wednesday, the Comelec officially ruled on the merits of the disqualification case filed by lawyer Victorio Casauay, chief of staff of Mamba’s rival, 3rd District Rep. Joseph Lara.
Earlier in 2022 elections, Governor Mamba, nephew Francisco Mamba III, and wife Mabel Mamba, ran for governor, vice governor, and representative of the 3rd District of Cagayan, respectively.
Mamba was accused by Casauay of using public funds to provide financial aid, scholarship grants, and transportation during the 45-day prohibition period.
Casauay said “lessons have been learned” on Mamba’s disqualification, adding that criminal cases may follow later against the outgoing governor.
Governor Mamba said they received the copy of the Comelec order on Friday (May 30).
The governor said that despite the Comelec en banc’s affirmation of the disqualification case against him, it was not a unanimous decision. He said he will continue to serve as governor until June 30.
In the 2022 elections, Mamba won while his wife Mabel lost for congresswoman while his nephew Francisco III lost for vice governor. #
