"It is unfortunate that I will not be able to attend because of a prior engagement in Davao City as the Comelec will conduct a public hearing on the postponement of barangay and SK elections in the entire Mindanao," Chairman Bautista wrote in a letter dated August 10, read by Commissioner Arthur Lim, who attended the hearing in Bautista's behalf that day.
Andy Bautista, who is now being accused of corruption by his estranged wife Patricia, addressed his letter to CIBAC party-list Representative Sherwin Tugna, chair of the House Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms. Instead, the Comelec said he will attend a public hearing on Tuesday about the same issue, with Mindanao now under Martial Law.
According to Rep. Tugma, the controversy now surrounding Chairman Bautista is purely coincidental. However, he admitted that it’s hard not to think that this can affect the way he performs his job. Likewise, AKO BICOL party list Representative Alfredo Garbin said that Andy should not avoid the hearing because his marital issues will not be discussed.
On the other hand, Kabayan party list Representative Harry Roque said he is confused about the reason of Chairman Bautista for not attending the House hearing. “I wonder why the Chairman gave priority to a public hearing compared to a session of Congress that's considering to pass a law on the postponement of the elections," he noted.
Nevertheless, Commissioner Lim emphasized that the Comelec will continue to function, with or without Andy. “That I can assure our people. Even as the Commission is enveloped in this controversy. We in the Comelec are performing our duties. It is work as usual, your honor." He said of Chairman Bautista, whose term is set to end in 2022.
Contributed by Salvi Dalida
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