The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has lifted the suspension on the proclamation of Reina Mercedes, Isabela Vice Mayor-elect Jeryll Harold Respicio.
Respicio expressed surprise at the ruling and extended his gratitude to Comelec Chairman George Garcia for honoring the democratic mandate of the electorate.
Following the decision, the Comelec division ordered the Municipal Board of Canvassers to reconvene and formally proclaim Respicio as the duly elected Vice Mayor.
The initial suspension, enforced on May 12, 2025, stemmed from a disqualification petition filed by Task Force Katotohanan, Katapatan, Katarungan—a Comelec unit focused on combating election-related misinformation.
The petition was triggered by Respicio’s January statement, in which he alleged that Comelec’s automated counting machines (ACMs) were susceptible to hacking ahead of the 2025 midterm elections. As a result, Comelec pursued a cyber-libel case against him.
Despite the reinstatement of his proclamation, the Comelec First Division clarified that hearings on Respicio’s disqualification case will continue.
Respicio admitted his surprise at the decision after months of facing multiple legal challenges.
He maintained his stance regarding the integrity of the election process but noted that he has responded to Comelec’s show-cause orders through counter-affidavits.
The Vice Mayor-elect remains hopeful that the other cases against him, including his disqualification case and allegations of spreading fake news, will eventually be dismissed, insisting that his actions stem from his advocacy for the people’s rights.
Respicio assured the residents of Reina Mercedes of changes in governance, promising a transparent and responsive local administration.