RONALD Cardema's dream of becoming a congressman stumbled upon a massive roadblock.
This as the Commission on Elections (Comelec) First Division ruled to disqualify Cardema as the first nominee of the Duterte Youth party-list.
In its 25-page decision, the Comelec ruled to cancel the party-list's nomination of Cardema as its first nominee and prospective representative in Congress.
"Accordingly, the present consolidated petitions seeking for the cancellation of Respondent's nomination must be granted," said the Comelec First Division.
"Wherefore, premises considered, the instant petition is granted. The nomination of respondent, Ronald Cardema, as the first nominee of Duterte Youth party-list is hereby cancelled," it added.
The poll body ruled that it finds no reason to agree with Cardema's claim that the party-list, being a multi-sectoral organization, thereby making the age requirement for its nominees inapplicable to his case.
"While it may be true that Duterte Youth party-list represents both the youth and young professionals, it is important to consider that the professionals being represented by the party are the young ones, who would also necessarily belong to the youth sector," said the decision dated August 5.
"With this in mind, this Commission finds no reason why the age qualification provided by law for nominees of the youth sector should not be applied to the respondent," it added.
With regards to Cardema's claims that he intends to represent the young professionals sector, the Comelec pointed out that the former lacks proof of having such an advocacy and track record.
"Records would show that the respondent started to highlight the professionals only after the filing of the petition against him questioning his eligibility to represent the youth sector," it said.
"It is worthy to emphasize that the respondents track record of advocacy for the professionals only surfaced on June 25 as an annex to his Verified Answer," added the Comelec.
Commissioners Rowena Guanzon and Marlon Casquejo, Comelec First Division members, both voted to grant the petition, while Presiding Commissioner Al Parreño was on "official business".
Under existing rules, Cardema can still file a Motion for Reconsideration before the Comelec en banc. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)