THE PARTIDO Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) expressed alarm over an alleged delay by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in releasing election returns (ERs) to its transparency servers.
In a statement released on Tuesday, May 13, PDP asserted that while Comelec has been receiving ERs, the raw data remains “stuck” and unreleased to the public platform. The party questioned the reason for this delay, labeling it a “breach of public trust.”
“Filipinos shouldn’t have to wait, wonder, or worry about what’s happening to their votes,” PDP stated, drawing parallels to previous elections where delays fueled doubts and eroded faith in the democratic process.
The political party called on the Comelec to act immediately and provide clear explanations, rejecting “vague explanations or more technical excuses.” Their demand is for the immediate resolution of any glitches hindering the release of real-time data.
“Every minute these votes stay hidden, trust erodes. Shouldn’t we demand real-time transparency?” the PDP emphasized, arguing that Filipinos have a basic right to witness their votes being counted without filters, delays, or excuses.
The statement further warned that silence from Comelec would not alleviate public concerns but instead exacerbate them. The PDP urged Filipinos to view this as a collective concern, not solely the party’s fight.
“Gano’n na lang ba tayo kada eleksyon—tahimik na lang, nagtatanong pero walang sagot? Panahon na para ipaglaban ang karapatan nating makita ang katotohanan! Ang boto natin ay boses natin—hayaan ba nating mabulok ito sa dilim ng kawalang-paliwanag (Are we just going to be like this every election—silent, asking but without answers? It’s time to fight for our right to see the truth! Our vote is our voice—will we let it rot in the darkness of unexplained delay)?” the statement read.
As the National Board of Canvassers commences the official vote tally, the PDP expects an orderly and transparent process that affirms the will of the Filipino people.
The party concluded by urging vigilance and the widespread sharing of their call for transparency, asserting that “when it comes to our votes, every second of delay is a second too long.”
