Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued show cause orders (SCOs) against 27 contractors who were found to have contributed to the campaign funds of politicians in the May 2022 polls. In an interview Wednesday, Comelec Chairperson George Garcia noted that the SCOs have been forwarded to the private contractors last Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the show cause orders have been sent, and in the next two weeks, the contractors will be summoned. They are expected to submit counter affidavits and respond to possible issues and allegations against them. The contractors have been given 10 days to answer and must submit their affidavits to the Political Finance and Affairs Department (PFAD).

The contractors identified include Yunakim Construction, AIP Construction, Centerways Construction and Development Inc., and several others. Garcia indicated that the next set of SCOs will be issued to the candidates who received donations from these contractors. However, he declined to reveal the names of the candidates who won the elections and are now in office, stating that it is preferable for the contractors to respond first.

Garcia also noted that 26 of the contractors do not have contracts with the Department of Public Works and Highways, suggesting they may not face immediate repercussions. However, other potential violations, such as prohibited donations or franchises, are still under investigation.