Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has canceled the registration of the Duterte Youth party-list. Voting 5-1-1, the Commission en banc affirmed the decision of its Second Division, which initially canceled the group's registration on June 18.

According to Philippines News Agency, the 10-page ruling stated that after a careful review of the records, the Commission found no substantial reason to overturn the Second Division's decision. The Second Division's examination of the evidence was found to be consistent with applicable laws, leading to the denial of the motion for reconsideration.

The Comelec highlighted that there is no prescriptive period for canceling the registration of party-list organizations. This provision allows the Commission to prevent the misuse and abuse of the party-list system, ensuring that only qualified and genuine sectors benefit from it.

Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco mentioned that the ruling is subject to appeal. The respondent can file a petition before the Supreme Court within 30 days.

In the May 2025 midterm polls, the Duterte Youth received 2,338,564 votes, which entitled the group to three seats in the House of Representatives. However, the party-list was not proclaimed by the National Board of Canvassers due to pending cases.

Several groups, including Gabriela Youth, Anakbayan, and Kabataan Tayo ang Pag-asa, have urged the Comelec to disqualify the Duterte Youth party-list from the 2025 midterm elections and the party-list system altogether, citing "misrepresentation" of the youth sector. One petitioner emphasized that the party-list system should serve as a platform for marginalized sectors, not as an entry point for political dynasties.