Antique guv, 7 others in disqualification raps
Perez
Disqualification has been sought on reelectionist Governor Sally Zaldivar-Perez of the Province of Antique. The petitioners are the lady governor's political rivals Jovito Plameras and Arturo Pacificador, both running for the same position.
Also impleaded in the case are Perez's running mate, vice gubernatorial candidate Mary Jean Te, and five other candidates for Board Member in the province's South District who are under Perez's line-up and their mayoralty candidate in Sibalom town Zoilo Bernardo Tubianosa.
The candidates for Board Member included in the case are Alfonso Combong Jr., Fernando Corvera, Josephine Dagohoy, Damian Marfil and Julito Osunero.
In a report, The News Today (TNT) learned that hearing is tentatively set tomorrow with the disqualification as sought brought by the release of public funds deemed by the petitioners as illegal disbursements.
Perez, whose actions as incumbent governor has been placed under close scrutiny at the start of election period has sought counsel of top Ilonggo lawyer Guillermo Alcantara and associates.
The gubernatorial seat in Antique remains to be one of the hotly contested in the region with intense political rivalry that extends up to the congressional spot.
Sources told TNT of a purported massive show of support to the lady governor when news got out regarding the disqualification case. An insider said Perez appeared unperturbed over the misdevelopment saying she is confident of the legal fight set to be put up by her pool of lawyers.
Critics of the Perez administration on the other hand expressed jubilance on the forthcoming hearing saying documents and evidences are "overwhelming" that will support the petition for disqualification.
Questions were raised on the purported blatant violation committed by the Perez camp when it allowed disbursements of government funds despite the prohibition set on activities banned during election period.
Earlier, Perez reportedly challenged Plameras and Pacificador to reveal their true state of health amid reports that they are suffering from illnesses even before the start of the campaign period for the May 14 elections.