Comelec designates acting spokesperson

MANILA – An acting spokesperson has been designated by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

In a memorandum issued Friday, Comelec Chairperson Saidamen Pangarungan named lawyer John Rex Laudiangco, Director III of the Law Department, as acting spokesperson.

“You (Laudiangco) are hereby designated as Acting Spokesperson of the Commission effective immediately. You shall report to Commissioner George M. Garcia, the Commissioner-in-Charge (CIC) on Public Information and Education,” the memorandum read.

When asked if the issuance of the memorandum has something to do with the Sofitel-Impact Hub fiasco, Garcia said he has no idea.

However, he said Laudiangco is a perfect choice.

“Director Laudiangco is one of the best senior staff of the Commission. Talented, promising, and a bearer of truth,” Garcia said in a Viber message.

Former Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez congratulated Laudiangco on his appointment.

“I heartily congratulate Director John Rex Laudiangco on his designation as spokesperson of the Commission, and wish him all the best,” he said in a Viber message. “For my part, I shall continue to serve as faithfully as I have these past 18 years, with due deference to the will and wisdom of the Commission.”

Laudiangco said he is humbled by the decision of the Commission en banc.

“Under the guidance of Chair Pangarungan and our Commissioners, I look forward to working with all of you towards the success of our elections. Mabuhay po kayo,” he said in a separate Viber message.

Earlier, Comelec Commissioner Rey Bulay recommended the relief of Jimenez and Education and Information Department Director Frances Arabe from their duties in dealing with the media as the investigation of the foiled presidential and vice presidential debates continues.

At the same time, he recommended that the Commission designates replacements for the two officials.

The investigation stemmed from the financial woes faced by Impact Hub Manila with Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila hotel that led to the cancellation of the final round of debates, replaced with taped panel interviews.