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More Boholanos express distrust over the Comelec's handling of the electoral process as they agree on the decision of former Gov. Rene Relampagos to abandon his protest of dagdag-bawas (vote-padding and vote-shaving) against congressman-elect Adam Relson Jala of the 3rd district.

In a radio survey conducted over dyRD's top-rated "Inyong Alagad" last Tuesday, respondents overwhelmingly supported the decision of Relampagos to forego his electoral protest as this would only entail additional costs while it is highly improbable that the case will be resolved before the next election.

During the canvassing of votes by the Provincial Board of Canvassers (PBOC), Relampagos bared he and his lawyers protested on the tabulation of votes coming from the municipalities of Loay, Sierra Bullones, Duero and Pilar which were purportedly tampered.

However, objections made proved futile as the PBOC proceeded with the canvassing "without giving due merit and consideration to [their] protests." Relampagos said.

Many of survey-respondents view an electoral protest as an "uphill battle" since the protest will eventually be handled by the House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal (HRET).

A respondent opined that it is probable the HRET, composed of congressmen who have worked with outgoing Rep. Eladio Jala, can be swayed to favor the young Jala.

The two-time governor who lost by a margin of 3,059 votes against Jala expressed dismay over the alleged irregularities that took place in the 3rd district.

Relampagos has decided to leave politics and vowed to advocate for electoral reforms and raise public awareness on election fraud.

RESPONDENTS' OPINION

Survey respondents gave their opinion regarding Relampagos' decision to give up the election protest and abandon politics.

They said, based on experience, an electoral complaint would take a long time to be resolved and entails much expense.

A respondent suggested that the former governor needs to temporarily distance himself from the present electoral process that is tainted with fraud and cheating.

Other respondents indicated that they would still welcome Relampagos if he decides to run in the next political exercise.

Some expressed appreciation to the legacy left by Relampagos during his tenure as vice governor and governor of the province.

On the other hand, a few of the respondents urged Relampagos to make a stand and pursue his protest as many voters want the truth to come out.

They said that if he won in the last elections he should fight for it through the legal process.

Some of those who agreed with the former governor's decision said his protest is useless since he clearly lost in the election.

If he protests, it would be tantamount to questioning the will of the people, some respondents said. (Bohol Chronicle - 6/10/2007)

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