By: Angelica Arquero

Benguet Congressman Eric Yap has warned that he will file perjury charges against those behind the seven disqualification cases filed against him, unless they withdraw their petitions within 15 days.

“This is not a threat,” Yap said. “I’m just giving them a chance to avoid being charged.”

The disqualification complaints, filed with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), question Yap’s citizenship.

Because of these pending cases, the congressman’s proclamation last May 13 was withheld.

“We’ve decided to file perjury charges against those who filed the cases,” Yap said. “I hold no grudges. I just believe some of them were used. I hope my fellow Benguet residents won’t allow themselves to be manipulated. If convicted, those behind this might be abandoned by the very people who pushed them to do it.”

Yap is giving petitioners until June 15 to withdraw their complaints.

“So far, we’ve received three affidavits,” he said. “They’ve shared how it happened and who were behind it.”

He assured supporters that he will pursue all legal remedies.

“I promise to do everything to resolve these issues and continue serving the province,” he said.

COMELEC-Cordillera Regional Director Atty. Julius Torres confirmed that Yap’s seat remains temporarily vacant pending the Comelec en banc’s decision.

“If we’re talking about Benguet, we have to wait for the decision,” Torres said. “There was an election and someone won. But the process wasn’t completed because of the pending case. If nothing changes by June 30, the seat will remain vacant until an order is issued.”

Torres also clarified that the second placer in the congressional race cannot assume the position and that there will be no special election.

“As a general rule, the runner-up cannot take office,” he explained. “Let’s not prolong the issue, we’re waiting for the en banc’s resolution, which is expected before June 30.”

Despite not being proclaimed, Yap’s camp said he remains committed to serving the people of Benguet.