A congressional hearing on electoral reforms and suffrage, originally set for Monday, has been postponed for the second time, with lawmakers prioritizing discussions on the potential extension of elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Barmm).
Representative Lordan Suan of Cagayan de Oro's 1st District disclosed the delay during a turnover ceremony yesterday for fiberglass boats in Barangay Maayahay, Bayabas. Suan attributed the postponement to Congress prioritizing Barmm election matters.
“They filed the BARMM extension resolution ahead of my proposal, so I understand why it’s being prioritized,” Suan said.
Voter registration anomalies under scrutiny
Suan also addressed the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) planned disqualification case against a barangay chairperson in Cagayan de Oro over alleged anomalies in voter registration. He emphasized that while the Comelec operates independently, his congressional inquiry into the issue would proceed to aid future legislation.
“Even if Comelec files a case, I will continue the congressional inquiry because it’s for legislation,” Suan said, adding that the inquiry could lead to changes in registration procedures, including potentially removing barangay certification requirements.
The congressman denied allegations by the Pinoy Action Movement that he was leveraging his position to target political rivals.
“I am not abusing my power. I am fulfilling my duty as a congressman,” Suan said.
Uy camp expresses willingness to cooperate
Barangay Carmen Chairperson Rainier Joaquin Uy and Cagayan de Oro Mayor Rolando Uy, who were invited to the postponed hearing, expressed readiness to participate and assist in improving voter registration processes.
Chairperson Uy defended the increase in voter registration in Carmen, attributing it to the barangay’s rapid urbanization and Comelec's extended registration periods, which included mall-based registrations. “This growth is natural for an urbanized barangay,” Uy said.
However, Uy cautioned against turning legislative hearings into political platforms. “Congress is a legislative body, not a court. If the purpose is legislation, I’m ready to cooperate, but if it’s for something else, that’s a different matter,” he said.
Public backlash over disqualification case
Supporters of Chairperson Uy criticized Comelec Commissioner George Erwin Garcia's announcement of a possible disqualification case, calling it an act of persecution.
The barangay chairperson has denied any wrongdoing and committed to addressing the allegations through proper channels.
The hearing, initially set for November 20 and rescheduled to November 25, remains without a new date. Representative Suan said the Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms will decide on the next schedule.
Meanwhile, Congress is expected to focus on Barmm election issues in upcoming sessions.
