By Nef Luczon and Ercel Maandig
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Commission on Elections-Northern Mindanao (Comelec-10) will forward to its national office a petition from Misamis Oriental election candidates seeking the recall of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) commander during the campaign period.
The petition filed by 29 candidates in Misamis Oriental said they are concerned that 4ID commander Maj. Gen. Michele Anayron Jr. may influence election results as his father, Anayron Sr., is running for Sugbongcogon town mayor.
Anayron Sr. currently serves as a provincial board member, representing the Philippine Councilors League in an ex-officio capacity.
During a media briefing Tuesday, Comelec-10 Assistant Director Maria Dulce Banzon said the regional office lacks authority over Anayron Jr.’s assignment.
“The complaint was addressed to the Commission Chair, lawyer George Erwin Garcia, and it was merely forwarded to the regional office,” Banzon said.
She added that Comelec will not unilaterally decide on the petition as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will also be notified.
In a statement, Lt. Col. Francisco Garello Jr., chief of the 4ID Public Affairs Office, said the AFP adheres to a rigorous selection process. He denied any intent to influence the midterm elections.
Garello said Anayron Jr. is qualified for the role, citing his 30 years of service and exemplary performance in combating communist insurgency in the 4ID’s jurisdiction, which covers parts of Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions. (PNA)
