Lacuna, Quimbos face vote-buying, abuse of state resources allegations

Two high-profile politicians—Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan and Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo—have been asked by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to explain allegations of vote buying and abuse of state resources for the upcoming May midterm elections.

- DIANN IVY CALUCIN and PATRICK ELY GARCIA

Both were each issued a show cause order by the Comelec to address the allegation against them.

Lacuna-Pangan vowed to respond to the Comelec as she affirmed her full trust in due process of law.

On the other hand, Quimbo said she and her husband-former Rep.

Miro Quyimbo, who also received a show cause order-will comply with the Comelec order.

Lacuna, who is running for a second term, and the Quimbo couple are among several candidates issued show cause orders signed by Committee on Kontra Bigay (CKB) head Teopisto Elnas Jr.

The Manila mayor had earlier said her administration is prepared to comply with the Comelec's directive once an official copy is received.

"We will comply with the Comelec's show cause order as soon as we receive a copy, because we believe in due process," Lacuna said.

"The Comelec is rightfully and properly giving us the opportunity to respond to dispute and debunk whatever was put forward. We are ready to disprove and debunk." The show cause order is part of Comelec's ongoing efforts to uphold electoral fairness.