MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Senator Francis Escudero described the disqualification of Commission on Elections (Comelec) to Senator Grace Poe as “unfortunate” and “wrong” for statements on her period of residency in the country and her status as a natural-born Filipino.
Escudero expressed his disappointment on Poe’s disqualification through his official Twitter account:
The COMELEC decision is both unfortunate & wrong. It ignored jurisprudence & interpreted the law to render injustice rather than justice. 🙁
— Chiz Escudero (@SayChiz) December 1, 2015
We will, nevertheless, follow the process & keep our faith in the justice system. I firmly believe that Sen Grace will prevail in the end.
— Chiz Escudero (@SayChiz) December 1, 2015
Sa dami ng nag-file ng COC sa pagka-pangulo (ie satanas, galactic warrior), talagang inuna pa ng COMELEC na si Sen Grace ang i-DQ… 🙁
— Chiz Escudero (@SayChiz) December 2, 2015
Senator Chiz Escudero also responded to a follower’s question if he could substitute for Poe once the disqualification becomes final,Escudero said that there will be no substitution for an independent candidate as the law mandates.
Escudero added that Poe can appeal her case in the Comelec en banc which is composed of seven members and whoever will lose in the appeal, the case can be elevated before the Supreme Court.