The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) dismissed speculations regarding the cancellation of the next national polls, asserting on Thursday that the 2028 elections are guaranteed by the Constitution.
COMELEC Chairman George Garcia expressed full confidence in the agency’s readiness, noting that despite the vote being two years away, preparations are already 50% to 60% complete.
His statement follows a remark from Vice President Sara Duterte during an interview in The Hague, where she voiced hope that the country would still be able to hold its presidential elections in 2028.
Garcia maintained that the commission is bound by law to ensure the electoral process proceeds as scheduled.
“Sadyang may election tayo sure na sure sa 2028 dahil nakalagay yan sa Saligang Batas. Ang mandate ni COMELEC at all cost magkaroon ng halalan lalo ang Saligang Batas nagpe-prescribe nito,” Garcia told reporters.
He further emphasized that the poll body remains focused on its administrative duties rather than political conjecture.
“Tagapagpatupad kami ng batas… Sa mga speculation, ang 2028 election ay darating. Yan ay certain to come. In the same manner na pag sinasabi natin na may certainty, 100 percent may election sa 2028 dahil ang COMELEC ay naghahanda para sa election na yan,” he said.
The Palace quickly pushed back against the Vice President’s comments.
Communications Undersecretary and Press Officer Claire Castro characterized Duterte as an “expert at planting intrigues,” adding that the suggestions of a cancelled election were entirely baseless.
“Walang duda, darating at merong election sa 2028,” Garcia concluded.