Bicol Inc. comelec rules in favor of Soliman’s protest

. This year’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Bicol Inc. was characterized by fireworks. The controversy arose from the validity of ballots cast by 22 new members who were allegedly recruited by another candidate outside of the prescribed period mandated by Bicol Inc.’s constitution.

Prior to the election, the Election Committee (comelec), composed of Jose Relunia Jr. and Les Strong declared all positions vacant. It followed therefore that the previous council had no authority to make a ruling on the conduct of the election.

However, the previous council persisted in its decision to count the ballots cast by the 22 new members as absentee voters, resulting in the proclamation of Josie Musa as winner. Soliman eventually wrote an official protest to the comelec.

Bicol Inc.’s Constitution and Articles of Incorporation provides for a minimum of 3 months membership. A deeper probe revealed that the 22 absentee voters did not meet the requirement of being eligible members within the prescribed period.

Ross Iglesia garnered 67 votes, Neria Soliman 36 votes, Josie Musa 29 votes and Gil Belarmino, 1 vote.

The Election Committee then proclaimed Ross Iglesia and Neria Soliman as duly elected representatives for Albay.