The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Saturday, May 23, 2026, expressed its readiness to assist the Office of the Ombudsman in filing plunder and indirect bribery charges against Senator Rodante Marcoleta. The charges stem from alleged campaign donations worth P75 million during the May 2025 national and local elections.
Comelec's Statement
In a brief statement, Comelec Chairman George Garcia said the poll body is open to coordinating with the Ombudsman to pursue the cases against Marcoleta. "The Comelec is ready to help and coordinate with the Ombudsman," Garcia stated.
Background of the Case
Reports earlier indicated that the Ombudsman is recommending charges of plunder and three counts of indirect bribery against Marcoleta. Also facing complaints are his campaign donors: former Representative Mike Defensor, Joseph Espiritu, and Aristotle Viray, who are likewise charged with plunder and indirect bribery.
Comelec's Previous Action
Regarding the possibility of reviving a previous complaint against Marcoleta, Garcia noted that the Comelec has not yet considered it due to the absence of an appeal from the complainants. "With regards to reviving the case, the Comelec has not yet considered it. The poll body has not received any Motion for Reconsideration anyways," he explained.
In March, the Comelec en banc dismissed the investigation into Marcoleta's alleged failure to fully disclose campaign contributions, citing lack of cause to file an election offense case. However, the Comelec ordered the filing of complaints against the three campaign contributors for possible election offenses.
