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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Robredo camp hails TRO vs 'Oplan Baklas'

Robredo camp hails TRO vs 'Oplan Baklas'

Published Mar 9, 2022 11:40 am

Team Leni Robredo hailed the move of the Supreme Court (SC) to issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the implementation of the controversial Oplan Baklas campaign of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), reiterating its belief that it violates rights guaranteed by the 1987 Constitution.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) removes unlawful election materials during the “Operation Baklas” launch in Metro Manila on Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2022. (MARK BALMORES/MANILA BULLETIN)

With its issuance of a TRO against Comelec Resolution No. 10730, TLR said that the SC recognizes the urgent and solemn need to protect the rights of every Filipino to due process of the law; to be secure against unreasonable searches and seizures; and most importantly, the right of each Filipino to freedom of speech and expression.

"The issuance of the TRO is also a clear indication that the Comelec possibly reached beyond its motu proprio powers when it ordered to take down campaign materials on private properties," the TLR's statement read.

"From the very beginning, TLR has always believed that Oplan Baklas was designed to sow fear, to harass and intimidate the supporters of Vice President Leni Robredo and Senator Kiko Pangilinan, and to nip the growing spirit of volunteerism in the bud," it added.

However, the TLR believed that its fight was far from over.

"Let us be clear that this win is preliminary. The TRO is just a short respite for our hardworking volunteers demanding a change in leadership – one that is clean, efficient, and for the people," it said.

"In the end, TLR remains optimistic that the SC will side with the Filipino people by striking down Comelec Resolution No. 10730 for good," it added.

Senatorial aspirant and lawyer Chel Diokno likewise commended the SC for its move against Oplan Baklas.

"Elections are about the right to vote and the freedom to voice out one's preferences. The Comelec's task is to protect and enhance these freedoms, not restrict them to the detriment of fundamental rights," he said.

"Let our people decide whom they want to campaign and vote for as part of their constitutional freedom of expression and choice. Without these freedoms, the 2022 elections would be a sham," he added.

Related Tags

Team Leni Robredo Leni Robredo 2022 elections Vice President Leni Robredo Chel Diokno operation baklas Comelec TRO
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