A laywer is seeking the disqualification of Tuguegarao City Mayor Maila Ting-Que before the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for alleged abuse of state resources (ASR) to advance her candidacy in the May 12 polls.
In his complaint docketed as SPA No. 25-131, lawyer Ronald Brillantes alleged that Ting-Que leveraged the resources, employees, and machinery of the Tuguegarao City government to promote her political bid.
Brilliantes called this a clear violation of election laws that bar public officials from using government funds or assets for personal or political advantage.
He claimed that Ting-Que utilized several city government properties, including a mini-dump truck, pickup truck, L3100 van, portable stage, and plastic monobloc chairs.
The government vehicles and employees were used to transport Ting-Que’s campaign paraphernalia to and from the campaign rally venues.
Government resources, such as the local government-owned portable stage, were also used in campaign activities and campaign rallies in nine various barangays across the city.
“On several occasions, particularly during her campaign activities and rallies, the above-mentioned properties were used by Respondents for her own personal gain and benefit and to promote her re-election,” read the petition.
Brillantes said such practices not only create an uneven playing field but also erode public trust in local governance.
If found guilty, Ting-Que could face disqualification from seeking or holding public office.
The Tuguegarao Mayor also faces several Ombudsman cases, both criminal and administrative, on the alleged use of government-owned heavy equipment for personal gains.