MANILA – Daraga, Albay mayor Carlwyn Baldo is still eligible to run in the 2019 midterm elections despite being slapped with numerous charges, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) said.
Comelec spokesman James Jimenez said in a statement that Baldo can still seek reelection as a candidate facing raps can only be disqualified once convicted with finality by the court.
“A candidate cannot be disqualified on the basis of a criminal complaint alone. It has no significant effect on the official status of his candidacy,” Jimenez said. “He can only be disqualified if the complaint against him is ruled with finality.”
Baldo was charged with murder and frustrated murder by the Philippine National Police (PNP) for being the alleged mastermind in the murder of Ako Bicol Party-list representative Rodel Batocabe and his security escort, Senior Police Officer 1 Orlando Diaz last Dec. 22.
Aside from the criminal charges, Baldo will also face administrative cases at the Office of the Ombudsman, according to Department of Interior and Local Government secretary Eduardo Año.
“Administrative cases are also being filed at the Ombudsman so we can request immediately the preventive suspension of the mayor,” said Año. “These will likely deal with allegations of abuse of power and misconduct.”
The 52-year-old Batocabe was having a Christmas gift giving in his hometown in Daraga when he and Diaz were gunned down by at least six suspects.
Batocabe, who was a candidate for mayoral seat in Daraga in this year’s midterm elections against Baldo, died due to eight gunshot wounds from .40 and .45 caliber firearms./PN
