Comelec denies blackmailing SC

The Commission of Elections (Comelec) belied yesterday the accusation of Kabataan Party-list that it is blackmailing Supreme Court (SC) to rule in its favor for its pending case on their “No Bio, No Boto” policy.

“How can I even blackmail the SC? I do not blackmail anybody,” Comelec Chairman Andres Bautista told reporters.

The poll body made the clarification after Kabataan Party-list Rep. Terry Ridon accused the poll body of using the possible deferment of the 2016 polls to influence the SC to lift the temporary restraining order (TRO) it issued last week for the “No Bio, No Boto” policy.

In its petition, Kabataan Party-list pointed out the policy, which will bar people who have not submitted their digital photo, fingerprint and signature from casting their votes, is against the Constitution.

Over the weekend, Bautista warned the TRO may force them to postpone the 2016 elections since it may cause delays in the release of the official list of registered voters.

Ridon condemned the pronouncement as an attempt of the poll body to influence the SC in making its decision.

Bautista said they are set to submit their position paper on the matter before the SC today to convince it to finally lift the TRO.