COMELEC Chair clarifies status of Cabuyao City Mayor Hain amid disqualification case

Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairperson George Erwin Garcia has clarified the controversy surrounding the disqualification case of Cabuyao City Mayor Dennis “Denha” Hain, following various speculations circulating on social media regarding his position.

According to Garcia, Mayor Hain’s camp has already filed a motion for reconsideration in response to the earlier decision issued by the COMELEC First Division. Because of this, the initial ruling is automatically suspended until the motion is resolved. He emphasized that the case will go through the proper due process, where both parties will be given the opportunity to present and defend their arguments before a final resolution is issued.

Garcia reiterated that Mayor Hain remains the legitimate and sitting mayor of Cabuyao City, as there is no final decision or order from the COMELEC that invalidates his election or removes him from office.

“As long as there is no final ruling or order from the COMELEC, any duly elected official shall remain in office,” Garcia said.

The COMELEC chair further explained that only the court or the COMELEC en banc has the authority to remove an elected official from office through a final and executory resolution.

Despite ongoing criticisms and controversies, Mayor Hain continues to perform his official duties and responsibilities as the city’s chief executive. He remains active in leading local government initiatives in Cabuyao while addressing the concerns of his constituents amid public scrutiny on social media.