20. The above acts committed by respondent are clear grounds for
disqualification under Sec. 68 of the Omnibus Election Code for giving
money to influence, induce or corrupt the voters or public officials
performing election functions; for committing acts of terrorism to
enhance his candidacy; and for spending in his election campaign an
amount in excess of that allowed by the Election Code. There are only
97,000 registered voters in Meycauayan versus respondent's
expenses of at least P10,000,000.00 as admitted above. (Emphasis
supplied).
On May 15, 1995, Alarilla filed a Very Urgent Ex Parte Motion to
Suspend Proclamation. The COMELEC (First Division) granted the
motion after finding that there was a "probable commission of election
offenses which are grounds for disqualification pursuant to the
provisions of section 68 of the Omnibus Election Code (BP 881), and
the evidence in support of disqualification is strong." It directed the
Municipal Board of Canvassers "to complete the canvassing of
election returns of the municipality of Meycauayan, but to suspend
proclamation of respondent Florentino P. Blanco should he obtain the
winning number of votes for the position of Mayor of Meycauayan,
Bulacan until such time when the petitions for disqualification against
him shall have been resolved."
On May 25, 1995, Blanco filed a Motion to Lift or Set Aside the
Order suspending his proclamation. On May 29, 1995, he filed his
Answer to the petition to disqualify him.
On May 30, 1995, the COMELEC (First Division) heard the petition
to disqualify Blanco. The parties thereafter submitted their position
papers.[2] Blanco even replied to the position paper of Alarilla on June
9, 1995.
On August 15, 1995, the COMELEC (First Division) disqualified
Blanco on the ground of vote-buying, viz.:[3]
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