Cardema seeks more time to answer misrepresentation raps

In a three-page Motion for Extension of Time (to file counter-affidavit), Cardema, in responding to the case filed by Michael Navarez, Abigail Aleli Tan and Sean Angelo Thakur, asked for an extension to file his counter-affidavit starting Dec. 13, 2019 until Jan. 7, 2020. (File Photo: National Youth Commission/Facebook)

MANILA — Former Duterte Youth party-list first nominee Ronald Cardema on Friday asked the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for a 25-day extension to file his counter-affidavit on the case filed against him for material misrepresentation.

In a three-page Motion for Extension of Time (to file counter-affidavit), Cardema, in responding to the case filed by Michael Navarez, Abigail Aleli Tan and Sean Angelo Thakur, asked for an extension to file his counter-affidavit starting Dec. 13, 2019 until Jan. 7, 2020.

“[I]t is most respectfully prayed of this Honorable Office to grant the instant Motion by giving the undersigned Respondent an additional period of twenty-five (25) days from December 13, 2019 or until January 7, 2020 within which to submit his Counter-Affidavit,” Cardema said in his motion.

He added that the extension will allow him to find a counsel to represent him in the case.

“Such extension of time shall be used by the Respondent to secure the services of a lawyer who will assist him in preparing his Counter-Affidavit in order to protect his interests,” he said.

“This motion is filed not to delay the proceedings but solely due to aforementioned reason, all in the interest of justice and fair play,” he added.

Last month, the Comelec through its Law Department ordered Cardema to answer the case filed against him for supposed violation of Section 74 of the Omnibus Election Code (OEC).

The complaint alleged that the former Duterte Youth official committed material misrepresentation by stating under oath in his Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance (CONA) that he is qualified to be representative of the youth sector.

Earlier, Cardema filed his Notice of Withdrawal as the first nominee of the organization which was accepted by the Comelec en banc.

The Duterte Youth Party-list won a seat in the House of Representatives after getting a total of 354,629 votes in the May 2019 polls.