The Commission on Elections (Comelec) stressed it is under no pressure from any group in investigating the complaint against Sen. Rodante Marcoleta.
Spokesperson Atty. John Rex Laudiangco said in an interview on Sa Totoo Lang on One PH that investigators are carefully reviewing the case to ensure evidence is complete should it lead to criminal proceedings.
Laudiangco noted that while the commission respects the views of Sen. Panfilo Lacson, its process remains independent.
The complaint, endorsed by the Office of the Ombudsman, involves alleged discrepancies in Marcoleta’s Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) and Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE).
Comelec’s Law Department is examining possible criminal aspects such as perjury and election offenses, while its Political Finance and Affairs Department is handling the administrative side.
If probable cause is established, Marcoleta could face penalties including one to six years’ imprisonment, loss of voting rights, and perpetual disqualification from holding public office. (RRN)
