DQ case filed vs Tuguegarao mayor; abuse of state resources cited

Photo caption: Tuguegarao Mayor Maila Ting-Que

MANILA, Philippines — A disqualification case was filed against Tuguegarao City Mayor reelectionist Maila Ting-Que over alleged abuse of state resources.

This was confirmed by Commission on Elections (Comelec) chair George Erwin Garcia on Wednesday night.

In a petition filed May 5, Monday, Ting-Que was accused of using government vehicles and employees in transporting campaign paraphernalia to and from campaign rally venues; using government resources in campaign activities; and using government-owned portable stage in campaign rallies, among other accusations.

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“WHEREFORE, premises considered, it is most respectfully prayed for unto this Honorable Commission to DISQUALIFY Respondent Maila Rosario S. Ting-Que as candidate for the position of City Mayor of Tuguegarao and therefore CONSIDER as stray all votes that she will garner in the 2025 National and Local Elections,” the petition stated.

Ting-Que, in a Facebook post on Wednesday, noted that the petition was filed by Ronald Brillantes, who is the former City administrator of Jefferson Soriano, who is her mayoral opponent.

She also said she has yet to receive the copy of the petition against her.

“We will answer whatever allegations are thrown against us and will not be distracted in our goal to win this election,” she said in a statement.