MANILA: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) affirmed its readiness on Monday to defend its decision to disqualify Smartmatic. Comelec chairman George Garcia stated that they are prepared to respond to Smartmatic's petition, reportedly filed before the Supreme Court (SC), seeking a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the poll body's ruling.
According to Philippines News Agency, Garcia expressed the poll body's anticipation of Smartmatic's challenge to their November 29 ruling. "This is expected. The Comelec is willing and ready to defend its position," Garcia said. He acknowledged the importance of the SC's ultimate decision on the matter but mentioned that they have not yet received a copy of Smartmatic's petition. The Truth and Transparency Trio (TNT Trio) reported that Smartmatic has petitioned the High Court for a TRO, although a copy of the petition was not available at the time of reporting. Last month, the Comelec en banc decided to bar Smartmatic from participating in any public bidding for election-related projects. Smartmatic had been the primary election system service provider for the poll body from 2010 until the 2022 elections.