The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has cancelled the candidacy of a congressional aspirant in Camiguin over issues concerning residency.

In a 16-page resolution issued by COMELEC’s Second Division, the poll body ruled that congressional aspirant Paul Rodriguez was found to be a resident of Cebu City, not of Camiguin, as declared in his certificate of candidacy (COC).

“Respondent signed his COC, and subscribed and sworn to the veracity of his declarations therein, indicating that his false representation is deliberate, and will effectively mislead the electorate on his qualification as Member, House of Representatives, Lone Legislative District of the Province of Camiguin,” reads part of the resolution.

The petition to cancel Rodriguez’ candidacy was filed by incumbent Congressman Jurdin Jesus Romualdo.

“Wherefore, premises considered, the petition is granted. The certificate of candidacy of respondent, Paul Rodriguez for member, House of Representatives, Lone Legislative District of the Province of Camiguin for the 12 May 2025 National and Local Elections is hereby denied due course to and/or cancelled,” the resolution said.

However, Rodriguez maintained that he is a resident of Camiguin and that the poll body may not have considered the documents he submitted.

“Kuno ang ila kunong gibasehan nga wala kuno sa timing ang among pag-reply, kini siya wala man gyud ta kadawat og any summons or any Comelec complaint but kini nahibaw-an lang nato pinaagi sa mga rumor,” Rodriguez said.

Rodriguez’s camp is set to file a motion for reconsideration before the COMELEC.

“Sunod pud ana naa pa gyud korte suprema nga atong mapasakaan aning mga ebidensya nga dapat mao gyud ang basehan sa desisyon sa akong pagkandidato dinhi sa isla,” he added.

COMELEC-Northern Mindanao (COMELEC-10) has yet to issue a statement pending the finality of the decision.

“Kung naa na’y finality sa desisyon, andam man ang Commission on Elections, especially ang Regional Office, kung naa na’y finality sa desisyon,” COMELEC-10 Director, Atty. Renato Magbutay, said.