Comelec clears Marcoleta but targets three donors over undeclared donations
The Commission on Elections has terminated its investigation into Senator Rodante D. Marcoleta, ruling that he is not liable for failing to disclose P75 million in campaign contributions received during the May 2025 polls despite declaring a net worth of only P51 million and spending over P113 million total.
Key Points
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1The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has terminated its investigation into Senator Rodante Marcoleta regarding campaign finance disclosures.
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2Marcolera was cleared of election offenses for failing to disclose P75 million in contributions he received during the May 2025 polls, despite declaring a net worth lower than his spending.
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3While clearing Marcoleta personally camelec ordered that three specific donors face possible poll offense cases due to their failure to report these same undisclosed contributions.
Developments
The Commission on Elections admitted its decision to terminate Senator Rodante Marcoleta's investigation into campaign contribution disclosures could weaken public trust in future elections. Although PFAD recommended closing the case due to a lack of evidence proving an offense, Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia warned that others might use this ruling as precedent for non-disclosure during prohibited periods or before candidacy status is established.
The Comelec ruled that Senator Rodante Marcoleta is not liable for failing to disclose P75 million in campaign contributions, but his three contributors remain facing prosecution because they did submit individual reports within the required timeframe following elections ending on November 9th and December 14th.