Manila congressman-elect Uy files appeal

MANILA, Philippines — Manila congressman-elect Luis Uy yesterday sought the reversal of the Commission on Elections (Comelec)’s decision nullifying his candidacy and declaring his rival, Rep. Bienvenido Abante, as the duly elected representative of the city’s sixth district.

Through his legal counsel, Uy filed a motion for reconsideration with the Comelec.

He expressed readiness to seek all legal remedies, including filing a petition before the Supreme Court.

Uy maintained that he is a natural-born Filipino, having been born during the effectivity of the 1935 Constitution to a Filipino mother and an alien father.

Uy cited a provision of the 1987 Constitution stating that “people who were born before Jan. 17, 1973 to Filipino mothers and who have elected Philippine citizenship upon reaching the age of majority are deemed natural born citizens of the Philippines.”

He said the Comelec decision declaring his candidacy void for being a naturalized citizen is erroneous.

Uy noted that Abante’s petition seeking his disqualification was filed beyond the allowable 25-day period from the filing of the certificate of candidacy.

Since he has been proclaimed and the disqualification petition filed against him remains pending, Uy may be able to assume the post as congressman on June 30.