By Nora Sorino
GSD-Iligan Bureau chief
ILIGAN City -- A court has dismissed the disqualification case against this city’s congressional representative, stating that it is not the right place for such a case.
In a decision dated Jan. 2, Regional Trial Court of Lanao de Norte-Branch 1 presiding Judge Ali Macarambon ruled that the disqualification case against Rep. Frederick Siao is “not within the jurisdiction of the court.”
The disqualification case against Siao was filed by retired police colonel Leony Roy Ga and Mayor Celso Regencia. The two argued that Siao should be disqualified, alleging that he is “an alien.”
For his part, Siao expressed elation over the court’s decision. He said the disqualification case was meant “to harass” him. He maintained that he is a natural-born Filipino, contrary to the allegations.
Siao said the disqualification case against him should have been filed before the House Electoral Tribunal, which has jurisdiction on such matters.
Ga ran opposite Siao in last year’s mid-term elections under the slate of Regencia. He is currently serving as a city hall consultant.
